ED PS 6711 - Foundations of Literacy

The purpose of this course is to provide a theoretical and historical perspective on reading and literacy. As a graduate class that lays the foundation for subsequent courses in the reading endorsement and M.Ed. in Reading and Literacy program, we will critically analyze the current debates, research, and theories in literacy education from a variety of perspectives. A solid familiarity with the contemporary research base allows us to place literacy-related issues and challenges in a meaningful context that will help us make well-informed decisions, ultimately benefiting the students we teach. We will critically examine issues related to conceptions of literacy, emergent literacy, adolescent literacy, comprehension and meta-cognitive processes, and curricular, instructional, and assessment practices that facilitate literacy learning for all students at all grade levels in inclusive classrooms.