Literacy Teaching and Learning MOOC’s Updates

Section 5: Authentic Literacy Pedagogy

Media embedded February 5, 2016
Media embedded February 5, 2016
Media embedded February 5, 2016

Authentic pedagogies were first formulated as a direct counterpoint to didactic pedagogies. They became well known and influential from the beginning of the twentieth century, initially through the work of John Dewey in the United States and Maria Montessori in Italy. When it comes to reading and writing, authentic pedagogies promote natural growth, a continuation of processes of language learning that began with learning to speak. Authentic literacy pedagogy recommends immersion in personally meaningful reading and writing experiences, with a focus on processes of reading and writing rather than the formalities of rules and adherence to conventions. It calls its approach learner-centred and aims to provide space for self-expression.

Fig 5: Rugg and Shumaker’s Child-centered School, 1928

For examples of authentic literacy pedagogy in practice, see Section 5 at literacies.com.

Comment: What are the strengths and limitations of authentic pedagogy?

Make an Update: Analyze an example of authentic literacy pedagogy such as whole language or process writing. Describe the approach. What are its strengths and weaknesses? What are the differences from didactic literacy pedagogy?

  • Shraddha Goyal
  • Shraddha Goyal
  • April Ann Pesino
  • Monika Samaroo Latchman
  • Shaira Marie Del Rosario
  • Evelyse Eerola
  • Amanda Mize
  • Alberto Emmanuel Conti Morales
  • Adriana Tellez Adriana
  • Theresa Schantz