As our children are introduced to new and exciting technology, language and literacy must remain at the forefront in the 21st Century classroom. Parents and their children can now read along on their iPad or laptops. Children can listen to audio narration using the latest audio CD or the newest in media technology, called Play-Aways.
However, it is vital to remember the vital roles of sitting down, quietly with a good book to build literacy and language skills. In a national study, it was discovered that children who have not developed some basic literacy skills by the time they enter school are 3 - 4 times more likely to drop out in later years. (National Adult Literacy Survey, (2002) NCES, U.S. Department of Education).
Moreover, the proficiency of young children in reading affects us all. It is estimated that the cost of illiteracy to business and the taxpayer is $20 billion per year. (United Way, "Illiteracy: A National Crisis"). The question remains how can we best use the latest technology in the 21st Century classroom to improve literacy among preschool, elementary, and even young adults readers?
