ERIC Number: EJ1321175
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021-Aug
Pages: 28
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0034-0502
EISSN: N/A
An Investigation of Protagonists in Storybook Apps for Children
Cherner, Todd S.; Gurjar, Nandita
Reading Horizons, v60 n2 Article 4 p51-77 Aug 2021
Children's literature has historically been rife with implicit biases and underlying themes, and few scholars have investigated the impact technology has had on those elements appearing in children's literature. In response, this study used a content analysis methodology to evaluate 38 storybook applications (apps) for containing implicit biases and underlying messages related to the narrative's protagonists. These storybook apps were designed for young children to engage on their iPads. Overall, the study found that the storybooks apps predominantly featured protagonists who were White, middle-class, able-bodied males. The researchers first provide their rationale for the study along with their theoretical framework before describing their methodology and findings. The researchers conclude with implications for teacher educators, preservice and in-service teachers, storybook authors and app developers, and future researchers.
Descriptors: Literary Devices, Story Reading, Computer Oriented Programs, Childrens Literature, Content Analysis, Young Children, Social Bias, Gender Bias, Racial Bias, Disabilities
Western Michigan University, College of Education. 1903 West Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008. Tel: 269-387-3498; Fax: 269-387-6272; Web site: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/reading_horizons/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A