Learning on the Beat: Gracie's Corner and Culturally Relevant Multimedia Play and Learning

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Eleven
  In Roundtable Session: Critically Analyzing Media Texts and Discourses (Table 11)

Abstract

Among the sea of content creators taking their dance moves, comedic stylings and pet videos to platforms like YouTube and TikTok, there’s a contingent of people creating materials to support learning in early childhood. Taking the internet by storm, Gracie’s Corner has adults and children alike enthusiastically singing their ABC’s. Their YouTube channel features remixes of classic children’s songs like “Old McDonald” and “Row Your Boat” with a modern hip-hop beat. Gracyn and her parents have also shared original songs like “I Love My Hair” and “Juneteenth.” In this paper we examine how Gracie’s Corner facilitates language play and movement, and through culturally relevant and accessible content encourages caregivers and children to engage in literacy activities together.

Authors

• Latrice Ferguson, University of Pennsylvania
  Presenting Author

• Daris McInnis, University of Pennsylvania
  Presenting Author