Reading and Thinking Entry 5
Selfe, Cynthia L. "Technology and Literacy: A Story about the Perils of Not Paying Attention." Computers in the Composition Classroom. Eds. Michelle Sidler, Richard Morris, and Elizabeth Overman Smith. Boston: Bedford / St. Martin’s, 2008. 93-115. Print.
Electronic Reference:
http://www.jstor.org/pss/358859
http://www2.ed.gov/updates/PresEDPlan/part11.html
Likes:
I appreciate Selfe's explanation of the myth of literacy. Literacy is a complex beast that lacks a simple definition, carries and perpetuates significant social ramifications, and holds an interesting ideology that is not practically attained. Technology parallels this phenomenon of literacy. Selfe raises important points regarding America's knee jerk reactions to and idealization of technology. Specifically, efforts made thus far to improve technological literacy have not remedied the primary issue of access, particularly to those in low SES communities. Therefore, as a nation, we are not fixing a problem and appear to be wandering in aimless circles.
Selfe suggests a critical view and increased attention as opposed to simple use of technology to begin fixing the broad problems associated with literacy. Instead of letting technology and literacy run parallel paths, we should intercept and connect the two, allowing each to help the other. We can critically use the technology at our disposal to aid in literacy efforts.
Questions:
What, practically, can be done to improve access to low SES communities? What is currently being done? Is there a cost-effective method possible, particularly in today's economic downfall?
If literacy is the primary goal over that of technological knowledge, how can basic technology achieve improvement in a facet of literacy? Creative methods may benefit schools where access is limited.
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