New Literacies
I think that is is very important to teach new literacies as part of my ELA instruction. I think that teachers have to adapt to the digital age, and incorporate these skills in ELA instruction. Many of the skills encompassed by new literacies align closely with ELA standards, making them a natural fit within the curriculum. For instance, students learn to comprehend information on websites, identify main ideas, and analyze supporting evidence. These are skills that directly correlate with reading comprehension standards. It also teaches them critical thinking skills when they evaluate information given to them on various platforms. This skill is essential given the vast amounts of information at their fingertips. By preparing students to effectively engage with digital media, we equip them with the tools needed to thrive in the modern world.
There are several obstacles that teachers will face as we try to tame new literacies. The biggest obstacle is the changing landscape of technology. Technology is evolving rapidly, and it poses a challenge for teachers to keep pace. Teachers would need ongoing professional development to stay updated. Another obstacle is curriculum constraints. If the school district has not updated their curriculum recently, it may not align well with new literacy instruction. This misalignment poses a hurdle for teachers who must find ways to bridge the gap between existing curriculum and the incorporation of new literacies. I find as a teacher there is not much extra time in my day, if any at all. Educators with outdated curriculum will struggle with finding extra time to instruct students on new literacies. Overcoming the challenges of a rapidly changing technological landscape, addressing curriculum constraints, and finding dedicated time for instruction are crucial for successful integration.
