Sue E. Corbin, Ph.D., chair and professor of Notre Dame College’s Division of Professional, has dedicated her life to education for nearly 50 years and recently shared her expertise at the National Council of Teachers of English annual convention in Anaheim, Calif.
With a specialty in children’s literature and literacy, Corbin presented on the importance of empowering children to tell their own stories as a way to find their voice and connect with others. Nearly 100 educators from across the country, ranging from elementary school teachers to those in higher education, attended the panel discussion.
Corbin presented the framework for a unique tool that educators can use to encourage students to tell stories that are meaningful to them. After reading a story to students, Corbin offered several recommendations, such as Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Snow Queen.” She said teachers can lead a discussion on the concept of storytelling as an act of power. Students learn how everything from overcoming challenges to meeting new people shapes their individual story.
Students then decorate a “story stick” to hold during the storytelling exercise. They are encouraged to attach different symbols to represent different parts of their story, which helps guide them through the plot. In addition to acting as a storytelling guide, holding a story stick bolsters confidence. “I have seen students’ eyes light up and their attitudes change after experiencing a story stick activity,” Corbin said. “They can do something that they didn’t realize they could do before, and they OWN their story. It’s very empowering for them.”
Notre Dame offers several education majors and licensure options, including a Master of Education program. The Division of Professional Education is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available; for more information, visit NotreDameCollege.edu.
November 2022
About Notre Dame College
Notre Dame College is a private, Catholic, liberal arts college in South Euclid, Ohio, committed to teaching students how to make a good living and live a good life. Founded by the Sisters of Notre Dame in 1922, the College offers bachelor’s degrees in 30 disciplines plus a variety of master’s degrees, certification programs and continuing and professional development programs for adult learners on campus and online. For more information, visit NotreDameCollege.edu.