Rethinking Literacy: Digital Devices and Practices at School and at Home With Young Learners

• In Event: 70.065 - Roundtable Session 27
  In Roundtable Session: 70.065-5 - Rethinking Normative Literacy, Literacy Practices, and Research on Literacy

Abstract

In contemporary childhood experiences, mobile electronic devices and digital technologies are increasingly present, yet within early learning contexts can be regarded with suspicion. Classroom uses of technology within early literacy contexts still tend to face considerable challenges. This paper presentation will examine shifts in literacy practice, using data from three contexts: preschoolers’ home literacy practices in Canada and Australia; Canadian and Australian classroom teachers’ experiences; and Ministry of Education stakeholder perspectives. Using the findings of our studies, we address how early childhood literacy educators might successfully acknowledge and build from children's interactions with digital tools outside of school; and how school leadership and systems can support the integration of new tools and spatial practices in early years classrooms.

Authors

• Linda Laidlaw, University of Alberta

• Joanne O'Mara, Deakin University

• Suzanna So-Har Wong, University of Alberta

• Maureen Dockendorf, School District 43 Coquitlam