Alan Ruff Research Topic

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Essential Research Question – “How can we use Adolescent Literature as a vehicle to assist in teaching Multiculturalism?
Focus questions –
                Is the curricula biased towards “classical” vs “modern” literature?
                How do we address stereotypes in literature?
                Can authors authentically write about experiences that aren’t culturally their own?
                How do we find resources that represent multiple perspectives?
                What types of pedagogy are most effective in teaching multicultural literature?

                I’ve chosen this topic because I feel that students need to see themselves represented in the books that they read.  Literacy is important in all subjects so it is important that students be proficient readers.  Helping students to develop reading stamina means finding resources that student want to read and interact with.  As classrooms in the United States continue to become more diverse it is important that teachers continue to find best practices to reach all students.

                I believe that there will be a lot of research on the topic of multiculturalism in today’s classroom in many of the scholastic resources and educational journals available in the library.  I also believe that there will probably be agreement in the research on the need for teaching multiculturalism.  What I hope to find through my research is some type of agreement on what are the best ways to include this in the classroom.  As a middle-aged white male I recognize the importance of being able to relate to every student in my class regardless of differences in backgrounds.

Comments

  1. UnknownNovember 17, 2016 at 6:54 PM

    I think this a very important research topic to look into given your profession because I think this area in South Carolina is becoming more and more multicultural due to the new business showing up. With an influx of people comes their children and understanding the importance of culture and having a tool like these stories can help you integrate a class with multiple kinds of students who are otherwise unfamiliar with each other.

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  2. Lucy McElroyNovember 18, 2016 at 9:02 AM

    Interesting topic! I like how you said that students "want" to read things that relate to them. I think you'll be able to find a lot of research on your topic and I think your third question is a GREAT one to look into. Good luck on your paper!

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  3. UnknownNovember 21, 2016 at 10:02 AM

    I think your topic is very good. I like how your basing it off of your own experience as well, by wanting to relate and understand your students, so they won't be excluded. Good luck!

    ReplyDelete

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