Adult Literacy in the Digital Age

I recently attended a panel discussion at the Boston Athenaeum in their Civic Discourse Series on Literacy and Democracy titled "Adult Literacy in the Digital Age." I was expecting to hear about the effect of e-readers and technology on literacy and all the implications that follow - how adults look for jobs, relate to peers, search for information and absorb information in general. However, I listened to a discussion of adult literacy and education on a broader scale as it pertains to education facilities in Boston. Of the three participants, two were very passionate about advocating for a better and more accessible education system, but one speaker, Dr. Linda Nathan stood out above the others. Not only is Nathan an incredible speaker, presenting her ideas clearly and concisely while making a compelling argument, but she is dynamic to hear speak. While the other panelists discussed important and relevant issues - resources at adult literacy centers or community colleges, Dr. Linda Nathan made the urgency of the issues in education clear. While all the panelists are advocates for more equal opportunities in learning and striving towards a higher national literacy level, they each focused on their independent sectors. What is profound about each person's point of view and experiences is that in working with individuals who desire to learn or have found the proper motivation, is how far students can go when given the chance. It seems so clear and easy, yet our current public education system has so many barriers in place, like teaching to a standardized test, rather than developing a students abilities and interests as a constructive member of society.

- KER