Graphic Novels: A Brief History, Their Use in Business Education, and the Potential for Negotiation Pedagogy

Abstract

Over an extensive history, graphic novels have developed into a legitimate form of fiction and nonfiction for readers and students. Use of graphic novels in classrooms has proven effective in facilitating learning for students, as a conduit for lifelong reading, a tool for increased comprehension and critical literacy, and a stimulus for interest and comprehension. In applying this to teaching negotiation and conflict management, graphic novels may be effective in engaging students and increasing understanding when terms and concepts are confusing or vague, especially in their differences, and can help students understand the process and outcome of negotiation, both objective and subjective. It is in this way that the use of graphic novels in teaching negotiation and conflict management links to the nexus of research, theory, practice, and pedagogy. The article closes by describing these connections, and offering some suggestions for how to source material and include it in classroom settings.