Home Literacy Environment and the Development of Critical Reading Skills in the Digital Era

• In Event: Circling Back and Moving Forwards in Digital Literacies Research

Abstract

In today’s digital landscape, the development of critical reading skills in children and adolescents has become increasingly essential, demanding collaboration across various learning environments and contexts, including schools, homes, and informal settings. While research has traditionally emphasized the role of schools, the important influence of the home environment has often been overlooked. This poster shifts attention to how families can support critical reading skills development. The authors review and reflect on traditional models of the home literacy environment, assessing their relevance and adaptability in this new landscape. Based on this review, the poster introduces the Framework for Home Ecosystem Cultivating Critical Reading Development. The framework is grounded in a systematic literature review and empirical findings, expanding the traditional conceptualizations of home literacy environment. The framework, which can guide future research, illustrates how various family beliefs, practices, interactions, and resources can foster critical reading skills in young people.

Authors

• Minna Torppa, University of Jyväskylä

• Jenni Ruotsalainen, University of Jyväskylä

• Mari Manu, University Of Jyvaskyla

• Maria Maria Psyridou, Jyvaskyla University

• Jenni Salminen, Jyvaskyla University

• Panayiota Kendeou, University of Minnesota

• Leena Paakkari, Jyvaskyla University