Literacy Epistemology: Exemplifying Praxis Through Cross-Cultural Literacy Practices

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Eleven
  In Roundtable Session: Indigenous Values and Experiences in Reclaiming Education (Table 8)

Abstract

Educational entities prepare learners to be competitive in this globalized world by integrating culturally relevant pedagogical practices. Recognizing bilingual learners’ ways of practicing literacy outside of formal school setting is key in implementing meaningful literacy instruction by considering the diverse ways families and communities practice literacy. The researcher focused across cultures, specifically, across the Mexican American and Native Hawaiian cultures, at the parallels that exist between each culture, language and their approaches to literacy practices in mediating their learning. Literacy epistemology is exemplified through praxis that respects and acknowledges language and culture. Drawing from Literacy epistemology to cultivate an inclusive and overarching praxis grounded in formidable understanding with greater depth and perplexity that is maximized through literacy practices and experiences.

Author

• Isela Almaguer, University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley
  Presenting Author