New research literacies for contemporary research into literacy and new media

“Young people, more than most age groups, are taking opportunities to videoconference and make telephone calls over the Web and to participate in text-based or graphics-based live chats with others across the globe. They are using the new media to participate in computer game culture; popular music culture; and forms of fan culture associated with sports, film, and television” (Nixon, 2003, p.407) Technology is becoming more prevalent in our students lives. I think that it is important for teachers to integrate these new forms of technology into their classrooms. This article discussed some of the ways students can improve their literacy skills from using media literacy as opposed to only print literacy. When using media literacy students can: make meaning from texts and images online, produce music, videos, and media presentations (such as PowerPoint or Imovie), they can communicate in untraditional ways through technology forms of email, chat rooms, instant messaging, or even text messaging. I think using these forms of technology integrated with traditional print will make lessons and activities more motivating for students. Students love using technology and do it on a daily basis, why not include it in our classrooms? I think that there are many literacy computer games that are available for teachers to use in the classroom that will motivate students to read and complete activities using technology. During my student teaching, I observed my third grade students and how excited they became when it was their turn to use the computer to do the “Reading Counts” activities. Using this activity motivated the students and engaged them in literacy tasks. Why not use it???