Bayview Beach Resort, Batu Ferringhi Beach, Penang, Malaysia

27-30 September 1999

Investigating literacy and gender in an Islamic context: A research project

Robyn Cox

Universiti Brunei Darussalam

Abstract

This paper will detail a research project conducted in Brunei Darussalam. Islamic children's choice of reading materials was analysed based on gender. Data was collected from 150 students in upper primary schools.

The paper describes the process of the design of the project, and the researcher's reflection on the pilot study process. The methods used in analysing the literacy demands of children's books (for example, generic structure and readability) within a teacher education context will be detailed. Finally, the paper will pull together the findings of the study and then reflect on the place of literacy in English within the government Dwi Bahasa Policy.