Being a Good Citizen: An Exploration of Civics Themes in Ghanaian Kindergarten Curriculum

• In Event: 29.032 - Paper Session 1

Abstract

A study of civic education in kindergarten classrooms in Ghana is exploring how early childhood curriculum and pedagogy reflect conceptions of the dispositions and behaviors expected of citizens. The researchers analyzed national standards, curriculum (i.e., syllabi, teacher’s guides, textbooks, children's trade books), lesson plans, and artifacts of children's work to identify civics themes as well as goals for civic dispositions and actions. The presentation will highlight findings on dominant themes and practices situated in the Ghanaian kindergarten literacy curriculum and discuss the role of children's literature as a medium for shaping the young in the ways of society by conveying values regarding social roles, acceptable behavior, and civic ideals.

Authors

• Ilene R. Berson, University of South Florida

• Michael J. Berson, University of South Florida

• Kafui Etsey, University of Cape Coast

• Joyce Esi Bronteng, University of Cape Coast

• Aaron Osafo Acquah, University of Cape Coast