Theorizing everyday digital literacies for adult learners

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

Abstract

This poster focuses on digital literacies and adult learners, drawing on examples from contexts in Canada and the US. Previous research demonstrates that digital literacies are posing ongoing challenges for adults struggling with access and use. Digital literacies are crucial as adults continually face intersectional barriers when engaging in essential processes such as seeking health information, participating in civic engagement, and working toward economic mobility, making social connections, and navigating learning opportunities. The authors examine how the learning theories of Practice Engagement Theory, Critical Pedagogies, and Socio-Materiality contribute to understanding essential components of digital literacies education for adults. Looking across instructional strategies grounded in each theory, the authors emphasize the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to improve research and practice. The significance of this piece recognizes that digital literacies are essential to promote more equitable, inclusive, and responsive digital literacies education for adult learners.

Authors

• Suzanne K. Smythe, Simon Fraser University

• Jenifer Vanek, World Education