Comics and the Serious Art of Learning a Language

Date/Time
Date(s) - 27/02/2021
10:00 am - 11:45 am

Categories


Using Comics & Graphic Novels for Multi-Layered Learning With Jess Poole (University of Leeds)

Date: Saturday 27th February 2021

Time: 10am – 11.45am GMT
(doors open 10am; talk starts 10.15am)

Venue: This is a free online event.

LINK TO REGISTRATION FORM


Abstract:

Far from being simply trivial pulp fiction or ‘easy read’ picture books, comics and graphic novels are a rich and diverse genre that offer a multitude of opportunities to design impactful learning experiences, for a variety of learners (from A1 ESOL learners to EAP post-graduates).

Comics and graphic novels make use of a combination of text and image and a range of features (e.g. panels; narration; speech bubbles for direct speech / internal monologue; use of onomatopoeia for sound effects) to create meaning (McCloud 1994). This multi-faceted mode of communication often conveys subtle and nuanced layers of meaning, that require the reader to interpret the artists message (El Refaie and Hörschelmann 2010). More simply put, comics and graphic novels can be read in a variety of ways, and so are particularly suited to mixed level classes as each reader can bring their own interpretation to the story.

In this practical session we will explore how non-fiction / semi-autobiographical comics and graphic novels (on topics such as the lived refugee experience (e.g. Positive Negatives); the Black Lives Matter movement (e.g. Hot Comb); attending to matters of mental health (e.g. Rock Steady) can offer us a way into ‘serious’ subject matter and facilitate meaningful and transformative learning experiences for adult learners. We will play with a set of learning activities related to given extracts and there will also be the opportunity to experiment with making our own mini-comics.

Bio: Jess Poole is a Teaching Fellow at the University of Leeds Language Centre. Her interests are linked to fostering learner autonomy through creativity and Exploratory Practice. She is currently undertaking a scholarship project to explore the ways in which Comics and Graphic Novels can be used to fuel engaged and transformative language learning. She has previously presented on Using Padlets to Enrich Reading Circles (NATESOL 2016 annual conference), Exploring Creativity Through Reading Tasks (NFEAP 2016 conference), and Is Engagement In Extra-Curricular Activities Important For International Students? IATEFL RESIG Teachers Research Conference (Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul, 2018).

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