You Can Be the Hero of Your Own Story: Preservice Teachers and Quality Diverse Books

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Seven
  In Roundtable Session: Diversity and Children's Literature in Teacher Education (Table 4)

Abstract

While the number of quality books with diverse characters is increasing, the use of them in early childhood classrooms is very low. Instead, monocultural books are used, creating problems of invisibility, ethnocentrism, and systemic privilege. In an effort to change this trend, preservice teachers (PSTs) at a small university delved into diverse picture books in two classes over subsequent semesters. Using pre- and post-surveys as well as reflections, lesson plans, and additional assignments, we found that the knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives of PSTs were changed as a result of the exposure and use within classroom assignments. Additionally, PSTs stated they were more likely to use diverse books and recognized the importance of these books for all students.

Authors

• Melissa J. Marks, University of Pittsburgh - Greensburg
  Presenting Author

• Jessica McCormick, University of Pittsburgh - Greensburg
  Presenting Author