By David Booth
Why is my Blackberry Sitting On a Pile of Books?
Abstract
This paper addresses the “tipping point” of literacy, books and literature as taught over the decades and the emergence in 2010 of the digital landscape we know today. Digital changes (social networks, graphic novels, etc.) emerging in 2010 are noted and educators are encouraged in their adoption and/or adaptation. An emphasis on the importance of story in all curriculums is woven throughout.
David Booth is Professor Emeritus in Education at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto and Research Chair in Literacy at Nipissing University.
For over forty years, he has been involved in teaching children and teachers, as a classroom teacher, language arts consultant, professor, speaker and author. His students have included teachers and administrators enrolled in the preservice, master’s and doctoral programs in education.
David has authored many teacher reference books and textbooks in all areas of language and literacy development: reading, writing, speaking and listening, and has worked on several guidelines for the Ontario Ministry of Education.
A popular speaker internationally, David has addressed educators in every province of Canada, throughout most American states, and in England, Germany, the Near East, New Zealand and Australia. He has participated in many international conferences, speaking and presenting workshops in all areas of language learning. He has won several awards in Canada and the United States for his teaching, for his contributions to language and literacy, and for his books for young people.