Explaining Literacy

From the time we wake up to the time we go to sleep, we are constantly making meaning of the world around us. Traditionally, literacy has been defined as reading and writing.

“The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.” ― Mark Twain

Literacy has come to be seen as important aspect in nation development since being functionally literate is fundamental to all forms of both successes in school and in life. In global market, being literate is highly demanded in order that people are able to participate actively in larger society and in International activities such as international conference, research exchange, join research, and business and commerce. 

Literacy Explained

Literacy development occurs not only in school but in every aspect of daily life. We interact with others when we have a conversation. We read maps, advertisements, newspapers, recipes, manuals and websites. We analyze and interpret vast amount of media information. We write poems, songs, reports, blogs, and emails. Literacy opens the door to the world.

Digital Literacy is one of the most common ways of using literacy day to day. Since the advent of Digital Literacy, scholars have been concerned with identifying and classifying the various abilities related to its operation. 

Digital Literacy

Thinking skills have been acknowledged to be a significant element of digital literacy in the educational process context. Critical thinking, creativity, and innovation are at the very core of Digital Literacy. Information and Communication Technology is used as support for thinking. People learn objective in any school curriculum, also analytical thinking and interdisciplinary thinking; which help solve problems. 

“The swift change from face-to-face to virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic has proven why digital literacy is important. Now, virtual learning is the only means of teaching and learning in many school districts. Students and parents are learning how to navigate new systems and complete assignments with accuracy. Even for students who are hybrid or are still attending school face to face daily, computers and other devices like Clear Touch boards, Parmethian boards, iPads, clickers, and a multitude of applications and websites are used to complete assignments.” In other words, the world today has changed in so many ways, especially with technology. It’s so important to adapt and grow with the world, and literacy has to change and adapt too.