This webinar focuses on the empowering and enriching effects of representation within fiction books
There is growing interest in the importance of representing marginalised and minority identities and experiences within fiction books, and the potential for this to support self-awareness, feelings of belonging, and a positive sense of self. This talk focuses on the empowering and enriching effects of authentic, positive and nuanced representation within books, specifically focusing on neurodivergent representation, but linking this with discussion of diversity in its broadest sense. Drawing upon their work, the speakers will provide research-informed practical insights to support provision, reflection and discussion of diversity and representation within books.
This webinar is based upon a research project led by University of Edinburgh, in collaboration with BookTrust, National Literacy Trust, Scottish Book Trust and more. You can find details of the project, publications, online articles, and list of books for young people with neurodivergent representation on the Neurodiversity and Narrative Fiction webpage.
By the end of this webinar, you will:
- Have better knowledge of Young Adult fiction books featuring neurodivergent characters.
- Understand neurodivergent young people’s perspectives of the importance of representation, including benefits and potential harms.
- Feel more confident developing your provision, and engaging young people, with books featuring neurodivergent characters
Before the webinar:
- Please visit the Neurodiversity and Narrative Fiction webpage to learn more about this project.
- For a previous EA webinar on teenage reading, please enjoy this recording.
After the webinar, you’ll receive the recording of the webinar; a list of suggested further reading; and a series of reflection questions/writing prompts to support you in linking the content of the webinar back in to your practice.
Speakers:
Professor Sarah McGeown (Literacy Lab, University of Edinburgh). Sarah’s research focuses on understanding and improving literacy experiences and outcomes across the lifespan, and enriching lives through literacy. You can learn more about her research here: https://blogs.ed.ac.uk/literacylab/ and contact her at: s.mcgeown@ed.ac.uk
Dr Charlotte Webber (Institute of Education, University of Strathclyde). Charlotte’s research sits at the intersection of neurodiversity, education and wellbeing, and she has a particular focus on using participatory and collaborative approaches to research. She currently teaches on MSc Autism at University of Strathclyde and is working on research related to the experiences of neurodivergent students in school and Higher Education.
