Geographic Education for Preschoolers: The Dora the Explorer Contribution
Date
2011
Authors
Carter, James R.
Diaz-Wionczek, Mariana
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Grosvenor Center for Geographic Education
Abstract
We propose that the preschool show Dora the Explorer contributes to geography education by introducing the use of a map on every episode, demonstrating a significant step in teaching preschoolers about maps and map use. Furthermore, we suggest that the format in which the map is presented supports learning, allowing it to serve as a cognitive organizer. This program is an important component in the development of geographic concepts and skills of children aged two to five. Because the show is seen by millions of preschool children around the world every day, it seems apparent that Dora provides geographical experience and background for these young viewers and will enhance the start of their formal education. Therefore, to assess the contribution of Dora the Explorer, we propose some research questions that might be addressed to assess the contribution of this show to the geographic education of preschoolers.
Description
Keywords
geography, Dora the Explorer, preschool geography education, map use, cognitive organizer, TV formats, spatial intelligence
Citation
Carter, J.R. & Diaz-Wionczek, M. (2011). Geographic education for preschoolers: The Dora the Explorer contribution. Research in Geographic Education, 13(1), pp. 35-49.