Multi-Literacy

Kayley Reed November 2011 RCLP 1010 Taylor Gray

Multi-literacy is a broad outcome that encompasses many skills, but is basically defined by being able to communicate in different ways. Included are written, verbal, technologic, social media, numeracy and visual skills. Personal appearances can be considered a form of visual communication, because a message - or impression - is sent to others according to the way an individual dresses or presents themselves. Listening and critically comprehending information is also important to this outcome. The ability to understand and present information through a multitude of these different means is multiliteracy. The presentation From Literacy to Multi-Literacy: Diversity as a Resource discusses the importance of expanding literacy skills in a constantly changing and evolving world, where globalization is a growing force. (Cummins, J. & Early, M. 2005) Multi-literacy is a particularly essential asset for current and future leaders, because it in order to influence or lead a group of people, one must be able to first effectively communicate and engage with them. "Meaning-making across modes (verbal-visual-spatial-gestural), and across languages appears to have tremendous potential in the development of deep understanding" states Cummins and Early. As mentioned previously, comprehension is a vital aspect of multi-literacy. I have personally attained multi-literacy skills and in high school was especially interested in verbal communication, so I joined the public speaking club. I worked on developing my public speaking skills after a number of months, in order to prepare myself for competitions. These competitions involved delivering impromptu and written speeches, so not only did my verbal skills grow, but so did my writing abilities. In my first and only year of competing, I won 4 school district and regional competitions. I believe this shows an accomplishment in one aspect of multi-literacy. This outcome is important to leadership because in order to influence a group of people, the leader must be able to communicate effectively and engagingly with that group. Leaders are sometimes put into situations where the group or followers respond better to a different means of communication than what the leader is most comfortable with; so its vital that leaders expand their multi-literacy skills in order to communicate their thoughts in a way that successfully reaches their audience.