Full citation: Mills, K.A., & Chandra, V. (2011). Microblogging as a literacy practice for educational communities. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 55(1). 35-45.
What it means: The term is defined as sharing information “in very brief texts... to friends or followers using multiple sources and tools, including websites, third-party applications, or mobile devices, [and] unlike traditional blogging, brevity is essential” (pg. 36).
Level of familiarity. While the term and concept of blogging is familiar, and I can interpret the word’s meaning through the prefix, the term microblogging is new to me.
Do I want to know this word well and why? I do want to know this word well because digitalization of print will continue and I want to know if and how microblogging can be integrated in the classroom successfully. Mills & Chandra (2011) acknowledge that concerns about online security prohibits some educators from using this form of digital literacy.
Do I think others should know this word well...if so who and why?
Anyone involved in the educational field should know this word well, regardless of whether they actively participate in microblogging. Even though the concept of multiliteracies has become a part of the educational culture, “microblogging in educational settings has not yet been widely addressed (Mills & Chandra, 2011, p. 36). The authors study found four important recurring themes of microblogging that are worth exploring:
- Microblogging blurs the distinction between authors and readers.
- Microblogging transforms elements of the writing process.
- Microblogging creates a supportive virtual community of learners.
- Microblogging promotes self-initiated literacy practices.
It is fascinating how obvious our "always becoming literate" is visible to us in this age of digital literacy, isn't it Janet? Microblogging is a word I do not think I had heard before and I am quite sure I had never used it in a sentence before today! Thanks!
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