The Future of Education

Children's literature is typically associated with young readers, yet its impact on adults, both as a tool for reflection and education, remains largely underexplored. This research investigates how Arab adults engage with children’s literature, both for personal enjoyment and in teaching settings. The study will utilize a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) to explore how adults, particularly in Arab cultures, interact with Western and Arab children’s literature classics, focusing on the potential to foster critical thinking, emotional literacy, and cultural awareness.

The research addresses key questions, including how often Arab adults read children’s books for personal enjoyment, and which types of books resonate most with adult readers. Additionally, the study explores how Arab adults use children’s books to teach and engage children, examining storytelling techniques, the transmission of moral lessons, and the reinforcement of cultural values. Through analyzing these interactions, the study aims to understand what types of children’s literature are most popular among Arab adults and the reasons behind these preferences.

The research methodology will include both qualitative and quantitative data collection through surveys, interviews, and participant observations within the MOOC. Activities such as literary analysis and group discussions will allow participants to critically engage with the themes, values, and emotions presented in children’s books. Additionally, participants will reflect on how these stories impact their own lives, both as adults revisiting nostalgic material and as educators or caregivers using these stories to engage younger audiences.

The findings are expected to provide insights into the broader role of children's literature beyond its traditional audience, showing how these stories serve as a powerful medium for adult reflection, emotional connection, and cross-generational communication. By identifying the most popular genres and themes among Arab adults, the research will contribute to the growing understanding of children's literature as an educational tool for adults, while also enriching the discourse on how these stories shape both individual growth and cultural transmission in the Arab world.