1. Rethinking adult literacy
provision for 2003 and beyond
Robyn Jay
NSW Showcase

2. ‘Literacy is in its nature multimodal –
a matter of visual as well as linguistic design.’
And …..‘ multimodality itself is becoming more
significant in today’s communications
environments where, from multimedia desktops
to shopping malls, written text is represented in a
dynamic relation to sound, visuals, spaces and
gesture.’
Cope.B & Kalantzis.M (2002), Mulitliteracies, p.234

3. What does a multimodal/multiliteracy
model of teaching/ learning
actually look like?

4. How can new technologies be used to
add value to teaching/ learning programs
and enhance the development
of the ‘literacies’
required in 2003 and beyond?

5. ‘’Much of the technology use in education is
- didactic
- lock step
- - predictable
- - dogmatically linear, and
- - judgemental
Bill Cope
2003 Learning Conference
London

6. How can new technologies
be used to re-engage
marginalised learners:
those for whom traditional educational
approaches have failed?

7. Uses of new technologies include...Uses of new technologies include...
• student and class websites
• online communities
• PowerPoint publications
• interactive software
• webquests
• E-games and role play
• student publications
• radio
• SMS
• digital video and camera
• sound recording
• E-pals
• weblogs
• Hot Potatoes resource development

8. Factors limiting innovation:
• insufficient technical skills and confidence
• lack of technical support
• lack of access to appropriate, up-to-date
equipment
• insufficient time
• restrictive program structures, funding
models and reporting requirements

9. SuccessSuccess
factorsfactors
often focus
on shared
narratives
start from
learner interests
& needs
Rather than the LOs
multi-modal
move away from an
emphasis on alphabetical
literacy
multi-skilled
partnerships and
facilitation
teams
‘life-wide’
blurring educational
boundaries
humanised and
customised
Offer a back door
approach to skills
development
Project-based
Passion

10. So, where to from here……
 Pilot projects to trial alternative models provision
 Documented case studies of innovative practice
within the field
 An online mailing list for literacy practitioners
 Joint resource development projects to adapt
materials for educational settings and programs

11. Thank you!