In this paper I explore my evolving understandings of literacy and ways of knowing. Using autobiographical narrative inquiry (Clandinin & Connelly, 2000), the first section of my paper delves into the ways I have previously negotiated concepts of literacy as an educator and novice researcher. In the second section of my paper, I turn towards Indigenous scholarship (Antone, 2003; Cardinal, 2010; Young, 2005) as I embrace my conception of literacy as “life lived” in conjunction with Freire’s (1985) concept of dwelling in uncertainty. By engaging narratively with my own literacy and learning experiences during the first year of my doctoral program, I negotiate uncertainty through three threads of learning: slowing down, being open to vulnerability, and walking humbly in good
Le, Minh. Drawn Together. Illustrated by Dan Santat, Disney Hyperion, 2018. Drawn Together is a work of art created by Minh Le, author of award winning, Let Me Finish!, and illustrated by Caldecott Medalist, Dan Santat. This beautiful story depicts the cultural and linguistic divide between a young boy and his grandfather. The book invites the reader to walk alongside these two characters as they struggle with their differences only to stumble upon their similarities. Bringing together two generations of artists, the story revels in the characters’ imaginations as they create a vivid world of artistic adventures and compassion. Inhibited by the linguistic barriers that once isolated the characters, Minh Le’s limited, yet well crafted, text serves to support Dan Santat’s captivating illustrations that “draw” the grandfather and young boy closer. Detailed facial expressions and rich illustrations heighten the reading experience and weave together a story that both literally and metaphorically bridges the space between a grandfather and his grandson. Whether you are curling up with young ones at home or searching for a beautiful book for your classroom library, look no further. This one is guaranteed to draw you in! Highly recommended: 4 out of 4 StarsReviewer: Darcy Courtland Darcy Courtland loves a good picture book! After seven years in the classroom, Darcy has returned to the University of Alberta to pursue a PhD in Elementary Education. Always up for a new adventure, Darcy is excited to be furthering her education in language and literacy and Indigenous education.
Questioning what knowledge is of most worth in the early weeks of North America's Covid-19 crisis, this article begins to reimagine the possibilities of curriculum in such unprecedented times. It reflects on the author’s experiences as a doctoral student to unveil the capacity of a curriculum that emphasizes compassion, community, and relational accountability. It then draws upon Indigenous, ecological, and postmodern curriculum theories to negotiate what an educational response could look like if curriculum approaches focused on holistically nourishing the learner spirit, connectedness, and creating a sense of wonder. The title refers to the current Covid-19 pandemic that requires an immediate re-conception of curriculum as the world rapidly shifts. While also nodding to concerns about internalizing “curriculum” as a mastery of outcomes instead of a consideration of lived educational experiences, this article extends an invitation to imagine the possibilities of a curriculum responsive to the ever-changing complexities of life lived.
The 13th Annual Graduate Research Showcase was held by the Department of Secondary and Elementary Education Graduate Students’ Associations on May 1, 2021. As our first virtual research showcase, graduate student presenters and participants gathered in virtual spaces to celebrate and share our research, and engage in conversation with colleagues. We appreciate and are grateful for the opportunity provided by the Alberta Academic Review to publish a special issue to present the conference proceedings.
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