What Does it Mean to be Literate in the 21st Century? (short version 8 min)

I would not have asked myself this question had I not started this journey into Adult Literacy. Little did I notice how we, in our everyday lives, are surrounded by the various literacies. As technology continues to expand, so does the idea of what we call literacy. Currently, digital literacy is a hot buzzword in the profession. Social media and a smartboard in the classroom are only the beginning. As I am creating basic writing programs at the Center for my adult population, this question will guide me in providing education that expands outside of the classroom.

 

So why the blog format?  

This blog was started, in part, as a final assignment (Learning Activity #4) for my class in Developing Programs for Adult Learners with Denise Williams, Ed.D. This blog serves as the final requirement for my class. I chose the blog format as a final project because I’ve done a few for other graduate classes.  Therefore, I am familiar, albeit not yet comfortable, with the medium. This gives me an opportunity to become more acquainted with blogging and how it relates to learning.  In the end, I can use this forum as a new tool to teach as this is one of the mediums of the 21^st century.

In addition, I know I would have to continue to sustain it as I moved forward with the plans for the Center. Another reason I started a blog is to have a record of the skills and knowledge I learned in taking this journey. Perhaps this may be of use to someone else who has an idea that seems a bit impossible. This blog will also serve as an account of the Center’s beginnings and will state its goals and purposes as it evolves. I believe this transparency may prove inspiring to the clients who make use of its services.