Sue Nichols
I am a literacy researcher and teacher educator whose work often takes me out of the classroom and into community settings. I like to get amongst the action as a participant observer in places where literacy and learning are happening. I enjoy picking up new skills with technology as well as enjoying and reviving 'old' literacy practices. In my spare time, I enjoy flamenco dancing!
Education
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Bachelor of Arts, Honours, Flinders University
Graduate Diploma of Education, SA College Advanced Education
Doctor of Philosophy, University of South Australia
Areas of Research / Professional Expertise
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literacy, parenting, educational research, teacher education, early childhood
Personal Interests
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reading, singing, flamenco dancing
Books
Articles
Young children’s literacy in the activity space of the library: A geo-semiotic i
Published: May 03, 2015 by Journal of Early Childhood Literacy
Authors: Sue Nichols
Subjects:
Education, English Language & Linguistics, Media and Cultural Studies
An ecological approach aimed at understanding contexts for learning, underpins this study of libraries as activity spaces for young children’s literacy. Five libraries serving diverse communities were subject to observation, visual documentation, and parent and librarian interviews. It was found that accessing the library is not equally easy for all, not all communities have equally well resourced libraries, and the social space of the library does not greet all families in the same way.
Aussie kids and global citizens: Tracing cultural nationalism and cosmopolitanis
Published: Apr 04, 2015 by Global Studies in Childhood
Authors: Sue Nichols
Subjects:
Anthropology - Soc Sci
Based on interviews with Australian parents and service providers, this study examined the influence of nationalism and cosmopolitanism. Ideas of nation were valued; however, there were significant challenges to resourcing a vernacular orientation to family life. Some parents identified with a cosmopolitan orientation to raising their children. Their motivations included future transnational mobility, advantage in a competitive job market and fostering an appreciation for diverse cultures.