DECAL: A Strategy for Collaborative Literature Discussions

Authors

  • Dr. Lina Soares Georgia Southern University
  • April Newkirk Georgia Southern University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56887/galiteracy.39

Keywords:

small group, DECAL, collaborative literacy, active engagement

Abstract

This article addresses a small group literature discussion technique that was implemented during one pre-service teacher’s field experience in a seventh grade Language Arts classroom. Based on the principles of social constructivism and transactional theory of reader response, the DECAL model is structured to allow students to better understand the complexity of literary elements and to stimulate lively discussions. DECAL stands for Design, Extensions, Connections, Author’s Structure, and Language. It is a variation of collaborative literacy in which group processes are a part of the individual learning activity. DECAL provides teachers with the steps to promote active engagement and empower students to build their own knowledge within the constructed democracy of learning. The small group literature discussion technique presented in this article is applicable to teacher educators who wish to address the important role of collaborative book discussion for young adolescent readers in middle grade pre-service
teacher education.  

Author Biographies

  • Dr. Lina Soares, Georgia Southern University

    Dr. Lina Soares ([email protected]) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Georgia Southern University. She teaches both undergraduate and graduate classes and serves on education specialist and doctoral committees. Dr. Soares has conducted numerous research presentations from international to state settings, focusing on effective pedagogical practices for content area teachers. She additionally serves as an undergraduate research mentor.

  • April Newkirk, Georgia Southern University

    April Newkirk ([email protected]) is a full time doctoral student and a full time instructor/university field supervisor in the Early Childhood Program in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Georgia Southern University. Ms. Newkirk has presented at international and national research conferences with a focus on effective Social Studies methods for young learners. 

ECAL A Strategy for Collaborative Literature Discussions

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Published

03/30/2013

Issue

Section

Research and Practitioner Articles

How to Cite

Soares, L., & Newkirk, A. (2013). DECAL: A Strategy for Collaborative Literature Discussions. Georgia Journal of Literacy, 36(1), 33-41. https://doi.org/10.56887/galiteracy.39

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