Decoding Diversity: An Analysis of Diversity and Inclusivity in Children's Picture Books

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Examining the Representation of Race and Ethnicity in Literacy Curricula Through Content Analysis (Table 20)

Abstract

This study presents a systematic codebook derived from critical and multimodal content analysis of 32 diverse children's picture books. The codebook, based on theories from Bishop, Mo and Shen, Nodelman, and Proctor, facilitates comprehensive scrutiny of cultural diversity, authenticity, and inclusivity in children's literature. Emphasizing both visual and print text, this tool enables a comprehensive examination of character identities and the ideologies embedded within children's picture books. The resulting code book holds significance for educators, authors, illustrators, and publishers, serving as a crucial instrument for evaluating and influencing future content. By bringing to light the often-undervalued aspects of children's literature, this study promotes the proliferation of authentic multiculturalism and inclusivity across all forms of media and societal institutions.

Authors

• Mengying Xue, University of Missouri

• Michelle Fry, Purdue University

• Xuwei Luo, Purdue University

• Rong Zhang, Appalachian State University

• Helen Bentley, Purdue University

• Breanya Hogue, Purdue University