About EDLT 6850 OL1

Explores the relationships between language and literacy and cultural-linguistic influences on langauge/literacy development. Topics include phonemic awareness, phonics instruction, fluency, comprehension, spelling and writing. Pre/co-requisites: EDLT 5220; nine graduate credits in related areas; Instructor permission.

Notes

Online Asynchronous

Section Description

In this course, we will explore a variety of diverse topics related to the broad fields of language and literacy. We will begin by working to construct a shared definition of the term literacy, focusing on the multiple roles that language and literacy play in our daily lives and from different cultural perspectives. We will explore these questions while building some foundational knowledge of sociocultural and critical race theories of literacy. We will then move on to the broad topic of language acquisition and development, looking specifically at diverse family literacies and home literacy environments. We will also explore topics related to cultural and linguistic diversity, including second language acquisition and code-switching. The remainder of the course will focus on a variety of related literacy-related topics and issues, including the role of systemic racism in literacy and language policies and practices as well as, digital literacy, motivation and engagement, reading difficulties, and early intervention. We will close the course by sharing findings from individual inquiry projects and by looking a little bit more broadly at the world of research, policy, and practice.

Section Expectation

The essential questions we will explore in this course include:
What is literacy?
What does it mean to be literate?
How do individuals develop language and literacy skills?
What social, cultural, and critical factors influence language usage and the development of literacy skills?
What kinds of research are being conducted (and should be conducted) in the fields of language and literacy?
What is the role of federal and state policy? How do research and policy impact classroom practice?

Evaluation

Critical Issues activities and assignments- final research presentation

Important Dates

Courses may be cancelled due to low enrollment. Show your interest by enrolling.

Last Day to Add
Last Day to Drop
Last Day to Withdraw with 50% Refund
Last Day to Withdraw with 25% Refund
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Resources