children’s literature

Introduction

The speaker targets a specific audience of university students to invite them to participate in a research study focusing on student strategies in online and face-to-face learning environments. Participation in this study not only aids research at Maloy University but also contributes to a broader understanding of educational methods.

Research Study Overview

Purpose of the Study

The study aims to investigate the strategies that students employ in different educational contexts—online versus face-to-face learning. Participation serves dual functions: it benefits the research and provides insights into students' learning behaviors.

Participation Incentives

Students participating in the study will receive:

  • A $10 Amazon gift card for one hour of participation.

  • The experience of self-reflection on their own studying strategies.

Participation Criteria

Students must meet the following criteria to participate:

  1. Enrolled in at least one online course.

  2. Enrolled in one face-to-face course.

  3. Interest in sharing experiences and strategies used in both learning environments.

Process of Participation

Setting and Location

  • Participants will meet in CN 100, a designated area for the study.

  • Participants will engage in the following activities:

    1. Complete two questionnaires aimed at assessing motivation and study habits for their online and face-to-face courses.

    2. Undergo a short interview to further elaborate on their questionnaire responses.

Confidentiality Assurance

  • The study guarantees confidentiality; responses are anonymous.

  • A coding system will be implemented to detach personal identification from responses, ensuring that students' comments remain confidential.

Sign-up Process

  • Students can sign up via a QR code or by emailing the researcher at mjebi@malloy.edu.

  • Students can also sign up in person by visiting the psychology department.

  • An ongoing need for 14 additional participants is highlighted, with flexible scheduling options available.

Call to Action

  • If students do not qualify themselves, they are encouraged to share the opportunity with peers who fit the criteria.

  • An emphasis is placed on the importance of participation and feedback to improve educational strategies at Maloy University and contribute to the wider education sector.

Discussion on Learning Preferences

During a discussion segment, the speaker encouraged students to share their preferences regarding online versus face-to-face classes:

  • Some students voiced a preference for online classes due to personal life circumstances, highlighting flexibility.

  • Others expressed a struggle with online learning, finding it challenging without physical interaction. The collective experiences suggest varied learning preferences among students.

Background on Author Study in Literature Course

Literature and Child Development

  • Importance of addressing children's unique educational needs, separate from adult focuses, is discussed. Changes in literature for children, driven by an increased emphasis on specialized education, were highlighted.

  • Discussion includes the evolution of children's literature, emphasizing authors who write with children's experiences in mind.

Author Examples

Beatrix Potter

  • Historical Context:

    • Beatrix Potter, a pioneer in children's literature, wrote and illustrated her own books over a century ago.

    • Her stories often feature animal characters and reflect her idyllic rural upbringing in the Lake District of Northern England.

  • Characteristics of Her Work:

    • Potter's books are recognized for their beautiful illustrations and narratives that capture the essence of nature and animal life.

    • Emphasis on Potter's status as a significant early children's author in the English language.

  • Personal Background:

    • Potter's wealth and circumstances allowed for a privileged childhood with frequent vacations to the countryside, which inspired her storytelling.

    • She faced challenges in her youth, including a lack of connection with her urban surroundings in London and feelings of isolation, influencing her desire to retreat into her artistic pursuits.

Patricia Polacco

  • Personal Challenges and Inspirations:

    • Polacco’s writing is deeply personal, stemming from experiences with a learning disability and bullying during her childhood.

    • A dedicated teacher helped her navigate her disability by seeking a reading specialist, and this act of kindness shaped her life.

    • Polacco later wrote a book to help her son understand diabetes, reflecting on her own past struggles.

Writing Assignment

Assignment Objectives

Students are to write their own children’s book inspired by their interests and experiences. Furthermore, they must prepare for an imagined interview with either Beatrix Potter or Patricia Polacco, demonstrating preparation through comprehensive research.

Required Elements of the Assignment

  1. Five Open-Ended Questions: Students must formulate five thoughtful questions directed to either author that demonstrate insight into their lives and writing processes.

  • Definition of Open-Ended Questions: Questions that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no"—encouraging elaboration instead.

  1. Understanding of the Authors: Knowledge of each author’s background and thematic elements in their work is necessary to craft relevant questions.

  2. Format and Submission Requirement:

    • Questions should be numbered and answered in complete sentences.

    • Due date is set for March 3, as referenced in the course materials and on Canvas.