Critical literacy in early childhood education: Questions that prompt critical conversations
The use of questioning can be utilised as a strategy to foster and provoke children’s critical thinking through the medium of literacy.
Early childhood education lecturer Shu-Yen Law investigates this insightful topic in her article Critical literacy in early childhood education: Questions that prompt critical conversations published in the latest issue of NZTC’s online ECE journal He Kupu.
According to Shu-Yen, the art of questioning includes adults asking questions in purposeful ways and eliciting children’s responses and questions.
“This strategy prompts children to make connections to prior knowledge and experiences, share their perspectives, reflect on ideas and explore possible responses. I believe that children do have their own views and judgments based on their understanding of what they see and experience in life, so in my article I’ve included examples of open-ended questions to get them thinking, talking and discussing.”
The use of picture books is explored as a valuable resource for teachers to engage children in critical conversations.
“Picture books may portray concepts and ideas that are meaningful and relevant to children, including social issues such as bullying, disability, diversity, divorce, poverty, and stereotypes. When being used to unpack the various messages hidden in the storyline and pictures, they can help children make meaningful connections to their own experiences and reflect on their actions and decisions.”
Shu-Yen reiterates that it is important to explore social issues with young children, as those as young as three have the ability to develop negative attitudes and prejudices towards particular groups in society.
“In my career as an educator I have encountered children who are not accepting of others just because they are members of the opposite gender or because of their physical appearance. I also recall memories from my childhood of how popularity was determined by one’s material possessions.
“These are examples of social issues surrounding children’s lives which could impact on their mental and emotional health, as well as their social development.”
Ultimately, Shu-Yen highlights the complexity and diversity of society - the need to nurture children to be respectful towards individual differences and to be able to make good decisions and actions in life.
“By encouraging critical thinking, we as educators can help to broaden children’s perspectives and foster positive outlooks. This will encourage healthy attitudes so they become socially aware individuals.”