In the video “The Essential Elements of Digital Literacies,” Doug Belshaw discusses the complicated relationship our society has with literacy and explains how it is not one specific thing. Belshaw dug into technology, and how there is a completely different skill set required to operate new technologies. I found his comparison to learning a new instrument to be particularly interesting. Literacy is not about knowledge, but rather about being able to execute what your brain wants to do. This is an outlook that has never really occurred to me.
Microsoft was mentioned in the class glossary, and I think this is a great example of new literacies. There are all sorts of new software that require a huge learning curve to become familiar with, nonetheless proficient in. Adobe and Microsoft are the two that come to mind first. Both of these have unique interfaces, that hardly scratch the surface of what they’re capable of, but are also two software that many employers are requiring of potential employees.
Perry’s definition of ideological literacy can be applied when we approach new literacies. This idea emphasizes the understanding of a literacy over the implementation. Pairing this with Schwed’s approach to Ethnography can aid in giving those learning something new, an opportunity to develop skills in the most pragmatic way possible.
As an art student, Adobe Literacy has been massively helpful in my education. As I mentioned before, the Adobe software is fairly complex and has many capabilities that I am unfamiliar with. However, having some prior experience with it has aided in my education, and certainly enriched my classes that have implemented Adobe in the coursework.
My grandmother has often turned to me to understand how to use her phone.
Although it is super sweet that she looks for help, it can be challenging for both parties. I wouldn’t say I am the most tech-savvy person in the world, however, since I grew up with many of these newly developed technologies, I have more of a grasp on them than my grandma does. Certain things that I may view as being fairly simple and straightforward, —like sending a text— she struggles to wrap her head around. So, lots of patience is required, especially when explaining the same concept over and over again.
I know it sounds simple, but I would say laundry machines. So many of the new machines have buttons, settings, and receptacles that they didn’t before. The building I live in has washing machines like this, and it took some time to learn what all of the settings were, and how to use them so I can have clean clothes!
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One thought on “Mya Barrie Conversation 3”
That’s so cool that you found Doug Betshaw’s comparison to learning a new instrument interesting! I totally agree with you about the importance of new literacies like Adobe and Microsoft. They have unique interfaces and can be a bit overwhelming at first, but they’re essential skills for many jobs. It’s awesome that you’ve been able to apply Adobe Literacy to your art education. And I totally understand the struggle of helping family members with technology. Also, I think laundry machines can be pretty confusing too, especially with all the different settings. Nice post!