Week 9 Assignment 1

I was interested to read about the drop in young adults' reading achievement levels but not at all surprised. Young adults today are extremely attached, if not addicted, to digital media and read traditional texts less and less. Many K-12 teachers have responded to the realities of the digital age and have integrated "new literacies" in their instruction. Unfortunately, most universities have not done so and still rely heavily on traditional texts. Numerous studies have shown, however, that the college students who do partake in courses that integrate digital media and the ICTs report that their reading levels have risen and that they feel more motivated and engaged. The study conducted by Wang and Hsu explored the use of blogs in the college classroom. Blogs are a great publishing tool and have many benefits. Blogs can be archived once the class is over; they can be private or open to the public, and they create a learning community. The conclusion of the study brought the following findings. Students reading levels did not increase as assumed, and students who did use blogs built a better rapport with their classmates. The researchers concluded that since the instructors were not adequately trained and were apprehensive at integrating technology in the classroom the integration was not effective. As a teacher, I realize the importance of taking advantage of the many professional development workshops and courses available. It's important to learn about the pedagogical and practical aspects of integrating new literacies in order for them to effefctively enhance instruction.