We’ll use Perusall to annotate and read together.
teaching literacy
As we continue our discussion about literacy, I find the opportunity to relate the topic to my own experiences. What we have read (and discussed) has had a lot to do with unveiling what literacy is, and if a true, single definition exists. As we continue this discussion, my question is: How should we teach it? Let’s take K-12 schooling for example. How should we teach literacy to our youth? Continue with the standard curriculum? Is it working best for everyone? I think we all know the answer to that one…
If we are basing our teaching on how we have defined literacy so far, then there should be more options for our youth, far beyond standardized teaching methods. In my younger days as a competitive junior golfer, I was exposed to a lot of golf instructors. After countless lessons with countless instructors, I have developed a cynical disposition to lessons in general. In my experience, I was told there were “right” and “wrong” ways to play the game, and if I didn’t learn the “right” way, I’d never be any good. It is too often that this happens, not just in golf, but in other learning environments. Instructors (or teachers) adopt what they think is a universal teaching method, and then assume that individuals will learn the same way, and at the same rate. We all know this isn’t true. Sure, I can buy the idea that there are certain fundamentals of learning that everyone should pay attention to, but I believe every lesson/teaching opportunity should adhere to the individual’s learning style. Sounds highly idealistic, I know. That being said, there is a need for more alternative learning opportunities.
Students have responsibility in this one as well. It is the student’s responsibility to take an active, not passive role in the learning process. It’s less about memorization, and more about making it your own. That is true learning. This kinda, sorta goes along with what has been discussed as the social meaning of literacy. What is the utility of this literacy, and if it is worthwhile, how will I (the student) make use of it? How will I make it my own?
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One Reply to “teaching literacy”
Daniel,
I completely agree with you. I feel like teachers put themselves into a “comfort zone” when it comes to their instruction, and they refuse to deviate from their “security blanket”. Thus, they adapt to what you call a “universal teaching method”. This is entirely unrealistic. What do technology, literacy, and every generation have in common? They change over time. And as future teachers, we need to be able to change with them. Yes, this may mean having to radically alter a previously used lesson plan, or learn how to use a mac over a pc, but this is why we’ve chosen this field, right? To educate the future generations in the best way possible, right?
I also agree that students have a responsibility when it comes to their learning opportunities. However, I stand firm by my belief that it is our jobs as teachers to create a learning environment where students want to take an active role in their learning. How do we do this? I don’t have that answer yet. But I am confident that with this next generation of teachers, we can learn how to create that shift from passive to active education.