Much has been written about the changing challenges of effectively teaching today’s students. That is, the conventional reading and writing are foundational to the evolving information and applied literacies of the digital world. Some characteristics of effective instruction, including literacy development remain constant:
Relevant practice;
Modelling of outcomes;
On-task and directed teacher support.
We also are familiar with concepts of engaging students which include:
Getting to know your students;
Integrating personal goals and interests in learning outcomes;
Providing relevant and real-life contexts of use.
However, due to the wider scope of literacies that students now require to navigate multidimensional digital environments and application, as well as the expectation of interaction and connection that social media have produced in users, we now must plan instruction and literacy development with a wider scope and with increased production and use.
Therefore, literacy development is no longer an option for teachers. Don’t worry about it, just be aware of it and support the process throughout. The US Department of Education provides some helpful suggestions and advice. Also, as you plan, keep in mind the 21st Century challenge in terms of skills required. This P21 article provides some helpful realities to keep in mind.
TIP: Plan for literacy development within the learning process of action and application.
Coming up next, “Students struggle with attention and focus, never mind reading and writing!” Stay tuned...