Our Purpose in Teaching Literature: What the Historical Documents Say

• In Event: 30.081 - Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: 30.081-1 - Division L Section 3

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present the findings of a document analysis research study. Using a qualitative content analysis approach, we coded and analyzed ten historical documents in the field of secondary English in which attempts were made to define the standards for teaching literature. Our findings suggest there are common tensions that have remained constant throughout our historical attempts to create standards for the secondary English classroom. These finding have important implications for how language about teaching literature has evolved and where policy makers and professional leaders have placed emphasis with regard to the purpose of teaching literature in secondary classrooms.

Authors

• Matthew Lambert McConn, Binghamton University - SUNY

• Andrew M Blaine, Sidney Central Schools