Crafting Identities: An Exploration of Multimodal Composing as Authoring Spaces in K–3 Classrooms

• In Event: Exploring Students’ Sociocultural and Sociopolitical Practices and Identities Through Multimodality and Embodiment

Abstract

In this study, we examined how K-3 students construct and navigate identities through multimodal composing, informed by post-structural and multimodal theories. Our analysis of 186 student creations revealed key themes: multifaceted identities, making new sense of identities, and the children as multimodal designers. Findings showed that these creations allow children to articulate their complex identities and experiences, highlighting linguistic, cultural, and social diversity. Simultaneously, they actively create new meanings and identities, showcasing their capabilities as multimodal designers. This study underscores the transformative potential of multimodal writing, providing crucial insights that aim to enhance pedagogical practices in literacy instruction and identity exploration.

Authors

• Mengying Xue, University of Missouri

• Christy Wessel-Powell, Purdue University

• Yangyang Zhu, Purdue University

• Tirtha Karki, Purdue University