Multimodal Mapping: Opening Space for Multiliterate Complexities

• In Event: Roundtable Session 7
  In Roundtable Session: Multimodalities, Multiliteracies, Writing, and Identity

Abstract

Extending theory from visual methodologies, critical geography, and literacy as a social practice, I discuss multimodal mapping used in ethnography of adolescent literacy that spanned three years, two for research design and one for data collection. Recent research acknowledges varied literacies among adolescent practices. Emerging spatial understandings of literacy practices cite the need to better understand how literacy practices are shaped through bounded sociocultural and spatial understandings. I discuss how multimodal mapping extended traditional methods and empowered participantsas mapmakersfosteringcollaboration and agency toconstruct and represent understandings. This inquiryopened space to come to understand social practices throughartifacts and design decisions. As an exemplar, I provide results related to one Haitian-American female from the fifteen total participants.

Author

• Julie Frear Schappe, The Pennsylvania State University