Integrating Literacy Across Subject Areas in EdTech Learning Design

Purpose & objective

This poster session aims to highlight the importance of integrating literacy instruction within EdTech products across various subject areas. By leveraging cognitive strategies, the session explores how students can construct deeper understanding of content through stronger literacy skills. This poster session seeks to equip educators with a deeper understanding of the value and practical applications of integrating literacy within EdTech learning design, ultimately leading to improved student outcomes.

Objectives (Participant Outcomes):

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Articulate the role of background knowledge (vocabulary, facts, and conceptual understanding) in reading comprehension.
Explain the benefits of embedding literacy strategies within EdTech products to enhance content mastery.
Identify specific cognitive strategies that can be employed in EdTech design to promote meaningful learning.
Analyze existing EdTech products (using BrainPOP as an example) through the lens of integrated literacy instruction.
Engage in discussions with fellow educators about effective methods for leveraging EdTech tools to empower students as stronger readers and learners.

Outline

Introduction (5 minutes)
* Welcome and introductions
* Session Overview

Content Presentation (30 minutes)

* The Importance of Background Knowledge (5 minutes):
Explain how background knowledge (vocabulary, facts, and conceptual understanding) acts as the foundation for reading comprehension across all subjects.

* Benefits of Integrated Literacy Instruction (5 minutes):
Discuss how integrating literacy strategies within EdTech tools can enhance students' ability to make meaning of content:
Improved vocabulary acquisition and retention
Deeper understanding of complex concepts
Development of critical thinking skills

* Cognitive Strategies for EdTech Design (10 minutes):
Introduce key cognitive strategies that can be integrated into EdTech products to promote meaningful learning.

Case Study: BrainPOP (5 minutes):
Analyze BrainPOP through the lens of integrated literacy strategies.
Highlight how the product utilizes specific strategies to enhance student comprehension.
Encourage audience participation by asking them to identify additional examples within BrainPOP or suggest other EdTech products that effectively integrate literacy.

Application and Reflection (15 minutes)

Design Considerations (5 minutes):
Provide practical considerations for educators and EdTech developers when designing products with integrated literacy instruction:
Alignment with curriculum objectives
Differentiation to cater to various learning styles
Assessment tools to track progress
Encourage audience to brainstorm additional considerations through a short, interactive activity like a quick poll or a collaborative writing exercise.

Reflection and Discussion (5 minutes):
Present prompts for educators to reflect on their own teaching practices:
How can they integrate literacy strategies within their subject area?
Facilitate a group discussion to share ideas and experiences.

Concluding Remarks (5 minutes):
Briefly summarize the key takeaways of the session.

Engagement Throughout the Session:

Visuals: Utilize clear and concise visuals like infographics, screenshots, and diagrams throughout the presentation to enhance understanding and retention.
Interactive Activities: Incorporate short, engaging activities like polls, collaborative brainstorming exercises, and group discussions to maintain audience interest and foster active participation.
Q&A: Dedicate time throughout the session for questions and encourage audience members to share their experiences.

Supporting research

https://www.ascd.org/el/articles/integrating-literacy-across-the-curriculum-an-easy-way-to-start

The Knowledge Gap, Natalie Wexler