Literacy - An Introduction To The Ecology Of Written Language 2E

This introduction to the expanding field of literacy studies has been fully revised for the second edition. It explores recent developments and new research that has contributed to our understanding of literacy practices, reflecting on the interdisciplinary growth of the study of reading and writing over the past decade.





An introductory textbook on the growing field of literacy studies, fully updated for the new edition



Includes new sections detailing recent completed studies of literacy practices, and the use of new technologies



Distinguishes between the competing definitions of literacy in contemporary society, and examines the language and learning theories which underpin new views of literacy



Now features additional material on cross-cultural perspectives, US-based examples, and information detailing current educational policy.

David Barton is Professor of Language and Literacy and Director of the Literacy Research Centre at Lancaster University. His publications include Beyond Communities of Practice (co-edited with Karin Tusting, 2005), Letter Writing as a Social Practice (co-edited with Nigel Hall, 2000), and Local Literacies: Reading and Writing in One Community (with Mary Hamilton, 1998).

1. An integrated approach to literacy.

2. Talking about literacy.

3. The social basis of literacy.

4. Researching Literacy Practices.

5. Literacy embedded in language.

6. Configurations of language.

7. Writing systems and other notations.

8. Points in history.

9. The roots of literacy.

10. Emergent literacy.

11. Public definitions of literacy.

12. School practices.

13. Adults and world literacy.

14. Some implications of an ecological view.