Heightening awareness about the importance of using multicultural literature
Abstract
A study investigated preservice teachers' views on the use of multicultural literature in the classroom. Data were obtained from 100 students enrolled in elementary language arts methods courses who read and reflected upon an article that discussed the importance of incorporating African-American children's literature in the classroom. Findings revealed that prior to reading the article, many preservice teachers had not considered the need to provide appropriate literature to minority students. However, once they had read the article, many students realized the power of literature to perpetuate and dissolve stereotypes. Findings are discussed in detail.
Reference
Colby, S. A., & Lyon, A. F. (2004). Heightening awareness about the importance of using multicultural literature. Multicultural Education, 11(3), 24-28.
Journal
Multicultural Education
Analysis
Is this article part of a larger project or series of studies?
no
Does this study draw on a large, preexisting data set?
no
Research Approach
Geographic Setting
Institutional Context
Certification Level
Programatic Focus
- English Language Arts (ELA)
Research Location Context
Preservice Participants
- undergraduate preservice teachers
Preservice Sample Size
100
Duration of Data Collection
Data Sources
Data Analysis Tools
- coding (emergent categories)
Researcher Positionality
- inside (staying their own students)
Research Questions
How do prospective teachers describe their understanding of the use of multicultural literature in the classroom after being exposed to a critical reading on the subject?
Is this research question explicit from the manuscript? Combination