64.026 - Disney as Curriculum

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Identifying the Walt Disney Company as both a creator and agent of curriculum, four scholars seek to explore multiple agendas set forth by the corporation through research in the Walt Disney World (WDW) theme parks. Through identifying consumer purchasing power, queering guests, identifying intended science curriculum, and charging guests with specific tasks, these collected works spotlight both impactful and negative outcomes of Disney as a curriculum. Being on location at Walt Disney World allowed these scholars to examine, through a critical lens, major aspects of the Disney corporate culture fully formed in the various aspects of the parks, identify nuanced ideals, and experience problematic propaganda. These rare opportunities are shared in the individual research projects of this proposed session.

Sub Unit

• Division B - Curriculum Studies / Division B - Section 5: Places and Praxis (The Where-Abouts of Curriculum)

Chair

• Gabriel Stephen Huddleston, Texas Christian University

Papers

• Disney and Inclusivity: Targeting Nontraditional Clientele - Whitney Roach, Texas Christian University

• Disneyfication and Disneyization of an Attraction at Epcot - Cassandra Cartmill, Texas Christian University

• How Can Informal Science Educational Settings Promote Citizen Science Mentality? - Callie Price, Texas Christian University

• An Examination of How Disney Commodifies Its Spaces Though Merchandise - Gabriel Stephen Huddleston, Texas Christian University

Discussant

• Jennifer April Sandlin, Arizona State University