Definition from Wikipedia:
Literacy has been described as the ability to read for knowledge and write coherently and think critically about the written word. Literacy can also include the ability to understand all forms of communication. Literacy encompasses a complex set of abilities to understand and use the dominant symbol systems of a culture for personal and community development. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literacy)
Definition from Merriam Webster:
Literacy: the quality or state of being literate (http://www.merriam webster.com/dictionary/literacy)
Literate: able to read and write (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/literate)
Definition from the National Center for Education Statistics:
http://nces.ed.gov/naal/fr_definition.asp
After reading several definitions, two ideas were repeated throughout: the ability to read and write. The definition Wikipedia stipulated that the reading and writing must be done coherently, while the actual dictionary definition from Merriam Webster did not place such a stipulation. The definition I agree with most comes from the National Center for Education Statistics. It says that to be literate, one must possess skills (reading and writing) and be able to use those skills (applying them in various settings).
After reading several definitions, two ideas were repeated throughout: the ability to read and write. The definition Wikipedia stipulated that the reading and writing must be done coherently, while the actual dictionary definition from Merriam Webster did not place such a stipulation. The definition I agree with most comes from the National Center for Education Statistics. It says that to be literate, one must possess skills (reading and writing) and be able to use those skills (applying them in various settings).
My original definition of literacy was: the understanding of a language and the ability to communicate effectively using that language. I stick behind that definition and believe it coincides with the definition from NCES with the need to have the skills and the ability to use them. If I were to alter my definition, I would try to include the importance of the application of literacy being adaptable in various situations an individual encounters while the knowledge is constant. For example, I apply my understanding of the written and spoken word differently in my various peer groups. I will speak and relate to different people in different ways, but the knowledge and understanding is the same regardless of how I choose to convey that in different circumstances.
Is the concept of literacy meant to be so complex? Or is it actually simple? Can we define literacy the way Merriam Webster defines it? [Able to Read and Write]? Is that enough?
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