The Challenge

The challenge I have set for this final research paper is to' follow my further interest' by reflecting on my learning process and the content in COMIC BOOKS AND GRAPHIC NOVELS IN SCHOOL AND PUBLIC LIBRARIES (University of Alberta LIS 518 ). I am looking specifically for those areas that challenged me, ergo my title--The Challenge.

My real challenge is to think about all I've learned and figure out how to share this with other teachers specifically, and other readers in general. I feel like I am in a position to advocate for graphic novels and comics, most especially their use in schools. But I will need ammunition!

Reflection

Why was my previous response to the idea of Graphic Novels and comics so negative?

Ignorance

My age and background

What have I learned?

Lots! And there is a lot more to learn. Graphic novels and comics are becoming more available all the time as interest from readers grows.Graphics are part of everyday life and educators want to help students develop and refine their visual literacy skills. Research shows that using graphic images is a powerful aid to learning.

What key things changed my understanding and inclination to read and buy comics and graphic novels for the school library?

Exposure to course resources, reviews, scholarly writings, and educated opinions all had a profound impact, but actually reading comics and graphic novels for myself clinched it.

Why the blog?

Writing about my new ideas and impressions will cement my learning and change my personal reading behaviour. I want to use this blog as a storehouse of resources so that I can convince other Teacher Librarians, students, and friends to buy, read and share comics and graphic novels.

What is the big picture piece I want to know more about and take with me into the future?

I want to understand how comics and graphic novels illuminate aspects of our current culture, in particular, the world of young people.

I want to know more about using Comics and Graphic Novels in educational settings