Julie Mcadam – Glasgow University

Julie McAdam is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Glasgow’s School of Education, specializing in Language and Literacies. With a focus on inclusive and culturally relevant pedagogy, she has developed teacher education programs in both Scotland and the Middle East. Her research interests encompass critical literacy, children’s literature, and the role of storytelling in fostering mutual care and social change. Through her work, McAdam aims to empower educators to use literature as a tool for addressing issues related to migration, identity, and displacement.

Academic Background and Professional Journey

Dr. Julie McAdam has been a part of the University of Glasgow since 2004, contributing significantly to the field of education. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree, with her doctoral thesis titled Resources of Hope A Narrative Inquiry into the Potential of Children’s Literature to Foster Mutual Care in Times of Crisis.” This research delves into how children’s literature can be utilized to inspire hope and action in response to crises, particularly focusing on themes of migration and displacement.

In addition to her academic achievements, McAdam has been actively involved in various educational initiatives. She has collaborated with colleagues to develop programs that emphasize the importance of culturally responsive teaching. These programs aim to equip educators with the tools necessary to address the diverse needs of students, fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Research Interests and Publications

Dr. McAdam’s research primarily revolves around the intersection of children’s literature and social justice. She has explored how narratives can serve as a means to challenge negative discourses and promote positive change. Her work often incorporates concepts such as critical hope and multimodal storytelling, aiming to create transformative narratives that resonate with students and educators alike.

Some of her notable publications include

• Children’s Literature in Critical Contexts of Displacement Exploring the Value of Hope(2020)
• Challenging Picturebooks and Literacy Studies(2021)
• Texts That Assure(2024)

These publications reflect her commitment to examining the role of literature in addressing complex social issues and supporting educators in navigating these topics within the classroom.

Contributions to Teacher Education

Dr. McAdam has made significant contributions to teacher education, both within the UK and internationally. She has been involved in the development of teacher education programs that emphasize inclusive and culturally relevant pedagogy. These programs aim to promote learning in diverse contexts, equipping educators with the skills necessary to address the needs of all students.

Her approach to teacher education is grounded in the belief that educators should be prepared to engage with the complexities of identity, language, and migration. By integrating these themes into teacher training, McAdam ensures that future educators are equipped to create inclusive and supportive learning environments.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

Beyond her academic and professional endeavors, Dr. McAdam is actively engaged in community initiatives. She has collaborated with various organizations to promote the use of children’s literature as a tool for social change. Through workshops and community projects, she has worked to empower individuals and communities to use storytelling as a means of addressing issues related to migration and displacement.

Her advocacy efforts extend to the broader educational community, where she continues to champion the importance of inclusive and culturally responsive teaching practices. Through her work, Dr. McAdam strives to create educational spaces that are welcoming and supportive for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Dr. Julie McAdam’s work at the University of Glasgow exemplifies a commitment to integrating literature, pedagogy, and social justice. Through her research, publications, and contributions to teacher education, she has played a pivotal role in shaping educational practices that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of diverse student populations. Her dedication to fostering mutual care and social change through storytelling continues to inspire educators and students alike.