Jewish Development, Identity, and Education
Yes, "identity" is a messy construct. You may prefer some other messy term. Whatever we call it, Jewish education can work toward building a sense of Jewish self within a broader self concept. 

Sample Essay
Representative academic publications:
Kress, J. S. (2010). Reflection and connections: The other side of integration. Journal of Jewish Education. 76, 164-188

Kress, J. S., & Elias, M. J. (2008). Distancing in encompassing education settings: Lessons from Jewish education. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 29, 337-344.

Charme, S., Horowitz, B., Hyman, T., & Kress, J. S.  (2008)  Jewish identities in action: An exploration of models, metaphors, and methods. Journal of Jewish Education, 74, 115-143.