Reading versus aliteracy
A crucial distinction!
Reading refers to the ability to decode written language, understand the meaning of written texts, and comprehend the information, ideas, and messages conveyed through written communication. Reading involves:
- Decoding: recognizing and interpreting written words, symbols, and punctuation.
- Comprehension: understanding the meaning of the text, including the main ideas, supporting details, and relationships between ideas.
- Fluency: reading with accuracy, speed, and expression.
Aliteracy, on the other hand, refers to the ability to use written language to communicate effectively, but without necessarily being able to read or understand written texts. Aliteracy involves:
- Writing: using written language to convey thoughts, ideas, and messages.
- Communication: using written language to communicate with others, often through digital means such as texting, social media, or email.
- Expression: using written language to express oneself, including creative writing, journaling, or blogging.
In other words, aliteracy focuses on the ability to produce written language, whereas reading focuses on the ability to comprehend written language.
While reading is essential for understanding and processing written information, aliteracy is important for effective communication and self-expression in the digital age. Many people may be literate (able to read and write) but not necessarily aliterate (able to use written language to communicate effectively).
In recent years, the rise of digital communication has blurred the lines between reading and aliteracy. With the increasing use of technology, people are often more comfortable expressing themselves through writing (aliteracy) than reading written texts (literacy). This shift has led to concerns about the decline of reading skills and the importance of developing both reading and aliteracy skills in today's digital landscape.