CI3016/COMM3016: The Science of Sesame Street

Can children’s TV and apps be educational? This is a question that most people ask themselves at some point, either as a parent or teacher, or even as an aunt or an uncle. This course investigates children’s books, TV, apps, and computer/video games as learning platforms for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) subjects. Students will learn to identify quality children’s literature and media and how teachers and parents can use these materials as effective teaching tools for STEM learning. Particular attention will be paid to recognizing potential misconceptions about STEM delivered through children’s books and media and how appealing a book/show/game is to children and teens.  Students will also learn about the business of children’s publishing, media production and research through visits and experiences with children’s authors, children’s media producers, and children’s media researchers. 

• Fall 2020