Program
Education K-12 M.A.
Year Approved
2020
First Advisor
Silmser, Lisa
Abstract
This thesis analyzes empirical educational data and research-based best practices with the goal of synthesizing and implementing literature instruction to garner cultural empathy and to make strides toward social justice in a high school setting. The author suggests there are significant academic and social-emotional benefits to cultural discourse, verifying the efficacy of targeted instruction. Empathy, while often viewed as a fixed component of human personality, can develop and grow if paired with culturally-responsive practices, meaningful and diverse texts, and small and large group discourse. Additionally, growing cultural diversity and racial tensions make the study and application of culturally-responsive instruction imperative to best prepare young hearts and minds for post-secondary life.
Degree Name
Education K-12 M.A.
Document Type
Masterʼs thesis
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Carlson, K. A. (2020). Sankofa for students: Literature as the impetus for empathy and social justice [Masterʼs thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/106