Literacies
Submitted by Jamyce E. Punch for C & I 335
Fall 1999

The changes of technology in literacy practices in education means that the definition of literacy also evolves to fit these new practices.  It means that educators must focus on sorting through and utilizing this new information in ways that are most beneficial to our students.  We are approaching a point where literacy no longer refers to the ability to read, write and compute.  The days of individuals reaching adulthood without mastering basic skills may soon be behind us.  I believe that as our technology tools lose their technological status, society benefits.  As with the telephone, television & stairs, cost and other accessibility factors are diminished and overcome.  'Technology' providers are generally forced to address and solve accessibility issues by public outcry for access by the group denied access (i.e. ramps, elevators, etc. for access to places serviced by stairs).

I found this definition of literacy at the official web site of the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council:

"Literacy has been defined in different ways throughout the 20th century:
~ the ability to write one's own name
~ the ability to pass a reading test in order to vote (aimed at preventing "politically incorrect" citizens from exercising their rights)
~ the ability to function at a fifth grade reading level
The current definition of literacy, according to the most recent National Adult Literacy Survey is:
An individual's ability to read, write and speak in English, compute and solve problems at levels of proficiency necessary to function on the job and in society, to achieve one's goals, and to develop one's knowledge and potential. "
International Visual Literacy Association
I submitted this site to the Open Directory's Literacy in the Information Age Site. The IVLA is devoted to the research, study and teaching of visual literacy--the ability to think critically and visually about non print media, as well as the improvement of students' reading and writing skills using visual literacy techniques.  This site includes the Benedict Visual Literacy Collection which is a collection of resources on visual literacy.
 

FUTUREKIDS
New technologies also means new business opportunities/ventures for the Technology Solutions Industry.  This is one of many web sites I found for business that offer services to assist schools, parents and students implement technologies.  FUTUREKIDS is one of the largest providers of computer education and literacy to children and adults of all ages.  FUTUREKIDS offers customized technology solutions with the sole purpose of equipping students with the basic computer skills needed to excel in school and in the workplace.