Teaching Equity through Children's Literature in Undergraduate Classrooms

Children's literature has been a part of undergraduate classrooms since the mid-1960s and is now a staple of English literature, library science, and education programs. This collection offers interventions for teaching equity through children's literature in undergraduate classrooms, with contributions from practitioners from various institutional affiliations, disciplinary backgrounds, nationalities, and career stages.

Format: Hardback
Length: 146 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Children's literature has been an integral part of undergraduate classrooms since the mid-1960s, evolving into a significant component of English literature, library science, and education programs. These classes have gained immense popularity, often being among the most sought-after offerings at educational institutions. The appeal of children's literature courses lies in their ability to provide students with a fresh perspective on familiar stories. The growth of the children's publishing industry and the recent scholarly interventions in the field have further contributed to the discipline's popularity.

A central concern in current children's literature scholarship and practice revolves around addressing contemporary issues of social justice effectively. This collection aims to provide a series of interventions for teaching equity through children's literature in undergraduate classrooms. It is designed for individuals who teach or are interested in teaching children's literature to undergraduates, encompassing contributions from practitioners with diverse institutional affiliations, disciplinary backgrounds, nationalities, and career stages. Furthermore, this volume includes contributions from scholars who belong to groups that are often underrepresented within academia, such as individuals from racial, national, ethnic, gender identity, disability, or other protected characteristics.

Children's literature offers a unique platform to explore and address social justice issues, as it can engage and resonate with students of all ages. By incorporating children's literature into undergraduate curricula, educators can foster critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of societal challenges. The stories and characters in children's literature can provide valuable insights into different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, helping students to develop a more inclusive and diverse worldview.

The contributions in this collection showcase a range of teaching strategies and approaches that can be used to promote equity and social justice through children's literature. These interventions include discussions of diverse representation, cultural sensitivity, and social issues, as well as practical exercises and assignments that encourage students to engage with the literature critically and reflectively. By incorporating these approaches, educators can create inclusive and engaging learning environments that promote equity and social justice for all students.

In conclusion, children's literature has played a vital role
role in shaping the literary landscape and has the potential to promote social justice and equity in undergraduate classrooms. This collection offers a valuable resource for educators and practitioners who are committed to teaching children's literature and promoting equity and social justice in their teaching practices. By incorporating diverse perspectives and experiences into the curriculum, educators can create learning environments that are inclusive, engaging, and transformative for all students.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032423586