An Investigation of Protagonists in Storybook Apps for Children.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	An Investigation of Protagonists in Storybook Apps for Children.
Authors:	Cherner, Todd S.¹ tcherner@unc.edu, Gurjar, Nandita² nandita.gurjar@uni.edu
Source:	Reading Horizons. Aug2021, Vol. 60 Issue 2, p51-77. 27p.
Subject Terms:	Children's literature, Teacher educators, *Content analysis
Abstract:	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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database:	Education Research Complete

Description
Abstract:	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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	00340502