6809 Week 2 Reading

http://www.edutopia.org/multimodal-learning-teaching-methods-media

This website provides examples of strategies to help students learn new literacies in multiple ways. 

1. How has the nature of literacy changed as a result of digital technologies?

Literacy is not just the ability to read and write anymore.  To be literate in the 21^st century, one must be traditionally literate and build on that framework to be able to understand and analyze new forms of texts that are created from digital technologies.  We are surrounded by technology everyday; thus, we need to build and expand what it means to be literate. 

2. What are the benefits of multimodal reading and writing for students?

By providing students with a variety of activities and assignments, educators can grab the attention of all types of learners in the classroom and keep them engaged.  These activities should not be considered a reward, but integrated into the curriculum everyday.  This strategy would have a great affect on students, but would have a greater impact on students from low SES homes and students with other issues.  Or at least this would be a great study to conduct. 

3. What project described intrigued you the most?

Chapter 2—Say yes to Music.  I believe that music plays an important role in our lives and helps us remember moments we don’t want to forget.  With this said, why not incorporate music into other subjects.  This would make an interesting study.  I am very musical myself, and would love to find a way to incorporate more music into science. 

4. What challenge to integrating mulitmodal reading and writing into schools do you most identify with?

I am in the understanding that some teachers develop a curriculum and lesson plans that they use each year.  They believe that this makes teaching easier.  This is a challenge that many teachers face—they don’t want to get stuck in a rut.  There is more than one way to teach something.   Teachers need to be open to change if in the long run has lasting affects on their students.