"Being literate in contemporary society means being active, critical, and creative users not only of print and spoken language but also of the visual language of film and television, commercial and political advertising, photography, and more. Teaching students how to interpret and create visual texts such as illustrations, charts, graphs, electronic displays, photographs, film, and video is another essential component of the English language arts curriculum." ~NCTE

: What specific forms of technology affect literacy instruction the most? What are the most beneficial and/or harmful uses of technology in literacy instruction?

Provides a good reading role model for students Provides auditory representations of text Incorporates various modes of instruction (reading, viewing, listening) Students can control narration rate

Multiple representations of information Fosters metacognative awareness Addresses culturally responsive instruction Students can control narration rates

Facilitates the writing process, especially the revising and editing stages Allows for collaboration Drafts are legible and easily understood, focusing students on content rather than structure

Efficient way to collaborate Enhances communication Prepares students for a globalized world Provides opportunities for critical thinking and reflection

Can integrate reading, writing, viewing, listening and speaking easily Allows access to areas not normally accessible Provides avenues for exploration, further analysis, and self-expression, and provides background knowledge and support for reading and writing

Provides a more consistent and dependable approach to assessment Digital portfolios, unlike the traditional paper portfolio, will become collections of data tracking students’ progress Allows teachers to individualize instruction because of more accurate assessment

Technology provides motivation previously unseen with traditional methods.

Although further research needs to be conducted, it is evident that technology can provide beneficial, lasting effects on literacy instruction.