Graduate Program
Curriculum and Instruction
Degree Name
Master of Science in Education (MSEd)
Semester of Degree Completion
Summer 2020
Thesis Director
John H. Bickford III
Thesis Committee Member
Amy Davis
Thesis Committee Member
Jeannie Ludlow
Abstract
This study explores the 2016 Monarch Award Master List as an educational resource for kindergarten through grade three teachers and librarians. It focuses this exploration by examining how diversity was represented in the text and illustrations of the books in the sample. The Monarch Award is Illinois’ K-3 Kids’ Choice award. Illinois’ children are increasingly diverse, and it is important that they have access to literature that reflects their diversity. The study revealed that diverse characters were portrayed with nuance and respect, but they were still underrepresented on the list. Additionally, diverse characters often had to display extraordinary characteristics to gain acceptance or recognition. Limitations, implications, and areas for future research are suggested.
Recommended Citation
McDaniel, Michele, "Examining Diversity in the Monarch Award" (2020). Masters Theses. 4828.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/4828
Included in
Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education Commons, Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Elementary Education Commons, Language and Literacy Education Commons
