Rethinking adult literacy provision for 2003 and beyond

Robyn Jay

NSW Showcase

‘Literacy is in its nature multimodal –

a matter of visual as well as linguistic design.’

And …..‘ multimodality itself is becoming more

significant in today’s communications

environments where, from multimedia desktops

to shopping malls, written text is represented in a

dynamic relation to sound, visuals, spaces and

gesture.’

Cope.B & Kalantzis.M (2002), Mulitliteracies, p.234

What does a multimodal/multiliteracy

model of teaching/ learning

actually look like?

How can new technologies be used to

add value to teaching/ learning programs

and enhance the development

of the ‘literacies’

required in 2003 and beyond?

‘’Much of the technology use in education is- didactic- lock step

- - predictable- - dogmatically linear, and - - judgemental

Bill Cope 2003 Learning Conference

London

How can new technologies

be used to re-engage

marginalised learners:

those for whom traditional educational

approaches have failed?

Uses of new technologies include...Uses of new technologies include...

• student and class websites

• online communities

• PowerPoint publications

• interactive software

• webquests

• E-games and role play

• student publications

• radio

• SMS

• digital videoand camera

• sound recording

• E-pals

• weblogs

• Hot Potatoes resource development

Factors limiting innovation:

• insufficient technical skills and confidence

• lack of technical support

• lack of access to appropriate, up-to-date equipment

• insufficient time

• restrictive program structures, funding models and reporting requirements

SuccessSuccessfactorsfactors

often focus on shared narratives

start from learner interests

& needs Rather than the LOs

multi-modal move away from an

emphasis on alphabetical literacy

multi-skilled partnerships and

facilitation teams

‘life-wide’ blurring educational

boundaries

humanised and customised

Offer a back door approach to skills

development

Project-based

Passion

So, where to from here……

Pilot projects to trial alternative models provision

Documented case studies of innovative practice within the field

An online mailing list for literacy practitioners

Joint resource development projects to adapt materials for educational settings and programs

Thank you!