Eng 102 Module 2 Technological Literacy Critical Narrative

Merriam-Webster defines literacy as the ability to read and write. The term may also refer to familiarity with literature and to a basic level of education obtained through the written word(Merriam-Webster, 2012). Most people have absolutely no idea what it means to be literate; what tribulations had to be endured in order for reading and writing to be extended to common individuals. Literacy was hoarded by priests, monks, and scholars during the Dark ages. It wasn’t until the invention of the Gutenberg press that written words were widely disseminated, ushering in the Reconnaissance Age. Two thousand years ago, a scholar would’ve been someone who could repeat history using the spoken word. So many transformations have taken place that the term literacy has followed suit. To read and write now encompasses the ability to operate a PC or Mac, use a word processor, and conduct internet searches. My past involves typical literacy education; pencils, pens, paper, chalkboards, etc. But it has crossed over into a newer technical form.
My literacy journey started like any other American child born in 1983. I began by seeing and hearing the English language used around me. We all learn some form of communication literacy prior to formal schooling. However, school is where the journey really begins, and mine all started inside the illustrious Missouri public school system. In pre-school and kindergarten, I learned words using flash cards and a chalkboard. The teacher would send me home with new words every week to learn. Not only did I have to know the word, I had to know how to use it appropriately by the end of the week. Early on, I was taught spelling, pronunciation, and how to read/write the English language. At that time, the most effective technology for school was the overhead projector; every classroom had one. Moreover, let’s not forget about the trusty chalkboard. My school utilized those as well. I often wonder if my literacy would be higher today if

References: Baron, D. (2010, September 19). Essays. Retrieved December 9, 2012, from English.Illinois.edu: http://www.english.illinois.edu/-people-/faculty/debaron/essays/pencils.htm Merriam-Webster. (2012). Dictionary. Retrieved December 9, 2012, from Merriam-Webster: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/literacy