Writing for Change: Engaging Incarcerated Youth in Writing With Digital Media to Promote Critical Literacies

• In Event: 52.083 - Youth and Adults Engaging in and Embodying Literacy for Change

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore 16 incarcerated youth’s perspectives and experiences using technology for writing, and their experiences during a three-week writing project with an emphasis on social justice pedagogy. There was a particular emphasis on narrative, informative, and persuasive writing with the goal to explore how writing can amplify an important social issue. Results indicated youth found specific instructional approaches helpful when crafting original pieces, they self-reported learning of digital media, and selecting a relevant topic from their lives was a motivating factor.

Author

• Kristine Pytash, Kent State University