ASSIGNMENT 3
DUE DATE: 6 JUNE 2025
,CHL2601 Assignment 3 2025
DUE 6 JUNE 2025
QUESTION 1
1.1 In a brief discussion, answer the questions below:
1.1.1 In your own words, define the term ‘literacy’.
Literacy means being able to read and write, but it is more than that. A person who is
literate can also listen, speak, and understand what they read and write. Today, literacy
also includes using technology, like reading or writing emails, texting, or searching the
internet. So, literacy is not just about books, it includes many ways we use language in
everyday life.
(Study guide page 254)
1.1.2 In your own words, define the term ‘emergent literacy’?
Emergent literacy means the early steps children take before they can read and write
properly. From birth, children start learning about reading and writing by watching adults.
For example, they see people reading newspapers, using phones, or writing shopping
lists. They may pretend to read books or try to write their names. These actions show
they are learning what reading and writing are for. This early learning is called emergent
literacy. Teachers and parents play an important role in helping children grow their
literacy by reading to them and showing how books work.
1.1.3 Critically discuss how technology has influenced literacy in the current state
of education.
, Technology in today’s education has made reading and writing work on digital devices,
changed what “being literate” means, offered new learning tools, and created fairness
challenges in access and teacher preparation.
Wider access to texts and tools
Learners can now read e-books, use writing apps, and join online classes anytime,
which keeps learning going even when schools close
Redefinition of literacy
Literacy now includes evaluating websites, interpreting videos and infographics, and
using social media responsibly skills often called “digital” or “media” literacy
Personalized and adaptive learning
Software tracks what each learner needs and gives extra reading or writing practice
tailored to their level, helping some learners catch up faster
Equity and training gaps
Many schools and homes still lack reliable internet or devices, and teachers need
more training to use technology well otherwise digital tools can’t reach their full benefit
Critical Perspectives and Future Directions
Technology as partner, not panacea
Multiple UNESCO and meta-analytic reports conclude that while technology can
change education, it does not automatically transform it human factors remain
paramount
Success hinges on aligning digital tools with clear learning objectives, ongoing
assessment, and a culture of reflective practice among educators and policy-makers
Toward sustainable, context-appropriate innovation
Future advances should prioritize low-tech and offline solutions in under-resourced
areas, alongside high-tech in more affluent contexts, to bridge divides