Speaker
Dr. Marianna Missiou, Assistant Professor, Department of Sciences of Preschool Education and Educational Design, University of the Aegean, Greece
Title of keynote
From Panels to Classroom: Exploring the potential of comics.
Bio
Marianna Missiou is an Assistant Professor at the University of the Aegean, specializing in children’s literature and graphic narratives. She has authored numerous studies and articles in both Greek and international journals, as well as contributed to collective volumes and proceedings of various conferences. Additionally, she has published two books: “Silent Comics and Picturebooks: Narrative Techniques in Wordless Books” (Kaleidoscope, 2020, in Greek) and “Comic Books from the Kiosks to the Classroom” (ΚΨΜ, 2010, in Greek). Her research interests focus on the theory and teaching of children’s literature, graphic narratives, and multimodal texts.
Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of contemporary education, characterized by diverse societies, technological evolution, and the dominance of multimedia communication, the traditional concept of literacy is undergoing a profound transformation. These changes impact the very essence of literacy, expanding its definition beyond verbal reading and writing skills to include competence in various modes of communication and information consumption. In the 21st century, schools assume an evolving role, recognizing the shifting nature of literacy in contemporary education and the imperative for a comprehensive literacy curriculum.
This presentation focuses on the integration of comics into educational practices. Often underestimated, comics are disregarded as mere funny storybooks with pictures, considered second-rate reading for children. However, in the contemporary context, comics are increasingly recognized as sophisticated tools that cater to learners at diverse educational levels, from kindergarten to universities. They represent powerful multimodal texts, with a rich tradition of pedagogical and educational application across various subjects, including history, literature, philosophy, mathematics, science, as well as social, political, and ideological issues. The importance of a comprehensive understanding of the educational value of comics contributes to their role in shaping the literacy landscape of the 21st-century classroom.
This presentation aims to explore the historical legacy, contemporary significance, and potential of comics in enhancing the educational experience. The current state and potential future of the intersection between comics and education, as well as the advantageous ways in which comics serve as educational tools, will be discussed. Furthermore, beyond their educational utility, and in the context of contemporary theoretical currents such as multiliteracies, cultural studies, and critical thinking within literary theories, this presentation extends into the realm of comics as integral works of the ninth art. It aims to illustrate their role at the convergence of these theoretical currents. The objective is to underline how the study of comics offers a pathway for guiding students toward becoming efficient consumers and producers of contemporary multimodal texts, showcasing the storytelling capabilities of comics.