What is literacy? Per Wikipedia, “Literacy is traditionally understood as the ability to read, write and use arithmetic. The modern term’s meaning has been expanded to include the ability to use language, numbers, images, computers and other basic means to understand, communicate, gain useful knowledge and use the dominant symbol systems of a culture.”
We all have our opinions on how the world “needs to change”, but if we do not ensure change happens on the most basic level, literacy, then we will only continue to be in trouble. Since changes occur by those that are knowledgeable, we best take a look at our future and future generations, by picking up the “bull by the horns” and ensuring our kids have strong basics to build from. Knowledge = control. The more knowledge you have about something, the better you can control it.
The United States as well as many other countries is riddled with illiteracy. The affects of it can be seen in our prison system. It’s tough to confront, but it’s a fact. Recent statistics show that 85% of youth who come into contact with the juvenile court are considered to be functionally illiterate, meaning they read at a basic or below basic level. In the adult prison system, 70% of male and female inmates score at the lowest proficiency level of reading.
Reading to children has been determined very effective in boosting literacy rates in the long term. An estimate of 77% of children who are read to are more likely to read, or attempt to read on their own, verses 57% of kids who don’t have regular story time at home. I can personally vouch for this. I spent a lot of time reading to my kids, especially at bedtime. This had a huge affect on their interest in learning to read and each of them became very strong readers.
For children already struggling in school, there are a multitude of ways to change these statistics, such as tutoring, but not everyone has the capacity to afford this. Another, less expensive route, is educational apps. These can not only fill in gaps, but give a child some additional practice. From my own experience as a homeschooling mother, I found that traditional methods do not always give enough of the “doingness” behind the theory learned, leaving behind competency.
There is another point that is vital, which is ensuring that a student understands the words involved in whatever he or she is learning. Passing words that are not understood shuts the door to understanding. There are actually physiological manifestations of “going blank”, yawning, finding yourself drifting off, etc., when a word is passed that is not understood. The only solution to passing that test, becomes memorization. Memorization does not mean understanding. Application of data depends on understanding. How can you build a bridge if the structure is not sound?
The purpose of Smart Bubble Gum is to create a positive impact on the decline of illiteracy. In order to accomplish this, we have searched for and reviewed the best educational apps, making the job easier for our viewers. We also know that for kids to be interested and remain engaged, the “fun factor” is key. Educational apps have been incorporated into many school programs, due to their impact on literacy. I think it is definitely worth looking at.
My hat is off to you for taking the time to read this. Good luck in your endeavors in creating a literate world through you children.
REFERENCES:
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literacy
Rebecca Lake – Shocking Facts: 23 Statistics on Illiteracy in America https://www.creditdonkey.com/illiteracy-in-america.html