Supporting Families to Read and Talk Together with a Library Digital Toolkit Program: Results from a Design-based Research Study

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 9:45 am - Gold 4
  In Roundtable Session: Design-Based Innovations for Informal Learning with AI and Digital Technologies

Abstract

This design-based research project focused on understanding how caregiver-child interaction in libraries could be supported by digital resources. Data are from 66 adults and 88 children who attended in twelve library programs. This paper asks: how did the design of a discussion-based digital toolkit (DDT) program align to caregivers’ interests in a literacy tool to support family interaction and shared activities? Findings relate to the design of the DDT program materials’ content, overall experience and relatability, companion hands-on activities, and discussion prompts. This work reinforces the use of Wh- questions in informal spaces. It also provides guidance for informal educators and librarians thinking about implementing digital resources with families in out-of-school-time.

Authors

• Heather Toomey Zimmerman, Pennsylvania State University

• Elisabeth L. Grinder McLean, Pennsylvania State University

• Yanping Xu, Pennsylvania State University

• Esther Prins, Pennsylvania State University

• Carol Clymer, Pennsylvania State University