The term “graphic novel” has changed over the years. If the words are looked up individually, “graphic” is an adjective that means “vivid” and “novel” is a noun meaning “long fictional narrative.” When paired, “graphic novel” means “a novel in the form of comic strips.”
Some instructors question whether graphic novels can or should be used as alternative texts. Using graphic novels as textbooks is an interesting concept. For today’s student who is familiar with the genre, it may have a positive effect on understanding a concept.
In one instance, Jeremy Short, a professor of management at Texas Tech University, co-wrote a graphic novel titled “Atlas Black: Managing to Succeed.” In his graphic novel, Short uses the main character, Atlas Black, to illustrate how to put management techniques into practice.
“When I first told [my colleagues] that I was going to do a graphic novel textbook, a lot of them gave me a sideways glance,” Short said in an article from “Inside Higher Education”. “But I haven’t heard anyone ever say that they look at the first chapter and say it’s a bad idea.”
Professors here at City College have different definitions about what a graphic novel is.
English professor Helen Krumm considers a graphic novel like a story that illustrates a vivid, long fictional narrative such as “The Grapes of Wrath” or “The Jungle.”
“My view is we give students things to read to educate them so that they can be aware of the history of humans and relate to the ones living today who suffer similar injustices,” Krumm said. “It is hoped that these students will learn to make our world a better one for human beings and not read books ‘just for the fun of it’.”
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English professor Dr. Steve Cirrone hasn’t used graphic novels in his classes. Cirrone would consider using them in a class that allowed for them, but not as a substitute for literature.
“I believe graphic novels are an art form, and a valid art form, but it is not the same as traditional literary genres,” Cirrone said. “I might use a graphic novel as an example of a new, contemporary or emerging genre, but not as a substitute for studying literature formally.”
Students have differing opinions on the use of graphic novels as textbooks. For younger students, it sounds like a great idea.
City College student, Hannah Dimond, feels that graphic novels could help with more in-depth texts.
“I would read graphic novels, but only along with the original work so I could compare and contrast them,” Dimond said.
Whether you believe that graphic novels or comic books can be used as legitimate teaching tools or even used to enhance the learning experience, everyone can agree that they are an emerging genre in the world of literature.
