Racism, Bullying, Divorce, Death: Pre-Teachers Discuss Presenting "Tender Topics" to Children to Foster Justice-Oriented Citizens

• In Event: 64.054 - Social Justice–Focused Content Areas

Abstract

“Tender topics” include common issues which should be explored regularly with children to lead them towards becoming more justice-oriented, democratic citizens who can consider others’ needs and work towards alleviating injustice and inequality. This study examined emotions of pre-teacher candidates (PTCs) before and after completing read-alouds addressing difficult topics such as racism, bullying, and poverty. Twenty-four PTCs designed, completed, and reflected upon “tender topic” read-aloud sessions in field experience placements as a part of an inquiry-based class assignment. Open-ended coding revealed the concerns, excitements, and perceived value of PTCs when addressing tender topics. While PTCs were mostly hesitant before conducting the readings, they concluded the experiences were necessary, children were engaged, and they would continue the practice as future teachers.

Authors

• Erin Casey, University of Oklahoma

• Kathryn VanDehei, Louisiana State University