The Social Construction of Literacy - Jenny Cook Gumperz
The Social Construction of Literacy: A Review
In her book, "The Social Construction of Literacy," Jenny Cook-Gumperz argues that literacy is not a natural or universal phenomenon, but rather a social and cultural practice that is shaped by the specific contexts in which it is used. She draws on a wide range of research to support her argument, including studies of literacy practices in different cultures, historical studies of the development of literacy, and ethnographic studies of literacy use in contemporary society.
Key Concepts
- Literacy is a social practice: Literacy is not simply a set of skills that individuals possess, but rather a way of interacting with the world that is shaped by social and cultural norms.
- Literacy is situated: Literacy practices are always situated in specific social and cultural contexts, and they are shaped by the particular needs and purposes of those contexts.
- Literacy is dynamic: Literacy practices are constantly changing and evolving, as new technologies and new ways of communicating emerge.
Implications for Education
Cook-Gumperz's work has important implications for education. She argues that educators need to understand the social and cultural contexts of literacy in order to effectively teach students how to read and write. They also need to be aware of the dynamic nature of literacy and be prepared to adapt their teaching methods as new technologies and new ways of communicating emerge.
Conclusion
"The Social Construction of Literacy" is a groundbreaking work that has changed the way we think about literacy. Cook-Gumperz's research has shown that literacy is not a natural or universal phenomenon, but rather a social and cultural practice that is shaped by the specific contexts in which it is used. This has important implications for education, as it means that educators need to understand the social and cultural contexts of literacy in order to effectively teach students how to read and write.
Why You Should Read This Book
"The Social Construction of Literacy" is a must-read for anyone interested in literacy. It is a well-written and engaging book that is full of fascinating insights into the social and cultural nature of literacy. It is also a valuable resource for educators, as it provides a wealth of information about how to effectively teach literacy in a diverse and changing world.
Where to Buy
"The Social Construction of Literacy" is available for purchase from a variety of online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Google Books. It is also available in libraries.