I didn't really know what to expect from this class at the beginning of semester. I had heard good things about the class and I'd had the instructor before so it seemed like a good combination. In addition, we don't get very many opportunities to discuss literature that we could add to our classroom library so it felt like a good idea to take the class.
Overall I'm glad I took the class. There are some things (like what to strive for when producing my papers) that I wish I'd figured out earlier in the semester than I did but at least I learned it. I feel more comfortable looking at literature from a different perspective than just whether or not I think a student could learn from the book. I've learned better ways to review literature and determine the level of quality and the authenticity of its representation. There are some stereotypes and generalizations used in literature that I may not have even noticed before taking this class.
In addition, I've learned ways to go about finding diverse literature to add to my classroom library. Whereas before I may have just gone to local bookstores, libraries, and browsed online a little, I now realize that there are better ways to go about finding the best literature to offer my students. Most bookstores and libraries don't have the amount of diverse literature that they should...probably a result of demand. Most people probably aren't aware of what could be offered. Now I would probably start with the different awards offered for literature and/or use Amazon.com for suggestions in different genres.
While I wish I had learned some insight into ways to incorporate this material into my classroom I value the tools I now have to evaluate diverse literature and determine its authenticity and its role in my classroom.
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