Reading Logs as Proxy for Literacy: The Misalignment of Perceptions Between School and Self

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 34
  In Roundtable Session: Reading and Writing Toward Critical Identity Constructions and Meaningful Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to explore the pedagogical practice of reading logs. Although some might assume that this practice only represents an innocuous record keeping system, this research demonstrates that students’ perceptions of themselves, their peers, and their teacher is influenced by their performance in this activity.  Similarly, a teacher’s perception of her students was filtered through the students’ performance in this practice. This research represents a case study incorporating qualitative analysis of 64 interviews and focus groups with 24 middle school students and their teacher. This paper provides insights into how a literacy practice can become a proxy for literacy itself and influence student and teacher perception of self and other. 

Author

• Jennifer G. Zwillenberg, Loyola University Maryland