Abstract
In this study I document and reflect on the advocacy work undertaken by Lifting Literacy Aotearoa, a small volunteer group that was formed in 2020 to advocate for evidence-based practice in literacy instruction in Aotearoa New Zealand. The history of reading instruction under a ‘balanced literacy’ approach in this country has led to a literacy crisis where learners who have been at school for 10 years do not know how to correctly use capital letters and full stops (periods). The work of Lifting Literacy Aotearoa has brought significant attention and awareness to the issues of reading instruction, and contributed to policy change. The group’s work in media engagement is particularly notable, having attracted coverage on national radio, television and print media. This paper explores the building of a community around the issue of reading reform in Aotearoa New Zealand and describes the activities that have made the most impact.
Presenters
Jennie WattsSenior Lecturer, School of Communication, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Reading Reform, Education, Community, Activism, Social Change, Advocacy, Literacy
