Unraveling Global Citizenship: Asian War Children’s Literature in Preservice Teachers Learning

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 4:20 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Neglected Narratives and Racial Literacies: Social Studies Teachers' Beliefs and Practices (Table 21)

Abstract

This research explores the impact of Asian war-themed children’s literature on preservice teachers’ perceptions of global citizenship, colonialism, U.S. imperialism, and racism. Despite criticism for Western cultural biases and neoliberal alignment, Global Citizenship Education (GCE) is increasingly relevant to address global challenges. Against this backdrop, this study utilized Asian war-related children’s literature as an immersive tool for preservice teachers to engage with neglected narratives. The preliminary findings indicate that exposure to this literature bolsters preservice teachers’ understanding of global citizenship and the complexity of U.S. foreign relations. The insights provide a compelling argument for including alternative narratives in education to foster global citizenship and challenge discriminatory attitudes.

Author

• Soo Bin Jang, University of Delaware