Author:
Hazard (2019) asserts that “society influences identity, literacy, and education” (p. 8), emphasizing that these elements are shaped by cultural settings, historical occurrences, and organizational structures. Education is not an impartial process; it mirrors societal values and norms, potentially resulting in the marginalization of varied perspectives and literacy practices. Traditional educational frameworks frequently emphasize prevalent literacy styles, like academic writing, neglecting to acknowledge other legitimate modes of communication. The multiliteracies framework addresses this issue by recognizing a broader range of communication methods, such as digital, visual, and spoken forms, enabling students of diverse backgrounds to participate actively in the learning process (Cope & Kalantzis, 2015). Educators can promote inclusivity and assist students in applying their knowledge to real-life scenarios by incorporating student-centered learning strategies, including culturally responsive teaching, project-based learning (PBL), and collaborative problem-solving. These methods recognize the varied experiences of students and encourage greater involvement with educational resources.
To change assessment methods, teachers should go past standardized tests and embrace authentic, collaborative, and process-oriented evaluations that can be applied to various circumstances (Hazard, 2019, p. 9). Since traditional assessments often emphasize rote memorization rather than the application of knowledge in dynamic contexts, educators should integrate portfolio assessments, peer evaluations, and inquiry-driven projects, prompting students to showcase critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication—the essential 4Cs for contemporary achievement (Larmer et al., 2015). Instructing and evaluating these abilities necessitates a transition to interdisciplinary and experiential education. Teachers can create evaluations encouraging students to integrate knowledge from different subjects, utilize technology creatively, and participate in reflective thought. Additionally, formative evaluations, such as instructor feedback and learner self-assessments, offer ongoing learning chances, promoting flexibility and lifelong education. By integrating these strategies into teaching, educators can guarantee that students develop the skills required to succeed in a more complex and interlinked world.
References
Cope, B., & Kalantzis, M. (2015). A pedagogy of multiliteracies: Designing social futures. Palgrave Macmillan.
Larmer, J., Mergendoller, J., & Boss, S. (2015). Setting the standard for project-based learning: A proven approach to rigorous classroom instruction. ASCD.
Hi Jade,
This article highlights the need for a more inclusive and practical approach to education. It challenges the traditional focus on academic writing and standardized tests, arguing that education should recognize and value different ways of learning and communicating. By a intergrating multiracial approach, it creates a system that allows all students to fully engage and succeed in the classroom regardless of background. The emphasis on formative feedback rather than sumative is also a great point as it focus on the growth of the learner which is so important for building confidence and lifelong learning habits.
your blog brilliantly champions a more inclusive, practical education, and I’m totally on board! Challenging the obsession with academic writing and standardized tests feels spot-on education should embrace diverse ways of learning and communicating. The multiliteracies approach you highlight is a game-changer, ensuring all students, no matter their background, can thrive. I love your point about formative feedback over summative it’s all about fostering growth, confidence, and lifelong learning habits, which really resonates. That said, implementing this shift sounds ambitious schools need resources and training to pull it off. Still, your vision for a student-centered system is inspiring and pushes the right buttons for real change. Great work!