Literacy: Trends and Explanations

For almost every statement on literacy, one can find another that directly opposes it, from the status of literacy—what it is today and whether it is getting better or worse, to how and why we got there. The universally accepted idea that it is good to be literate is even being questioned, and by some very sophisticated people. One argument is that TV, computers, and other interactive media may be viable substitutes for those who find it difficult to learn to read and write. Yet others claim that because of computer technology, a higher level of literacy is needed. This expression of doubt was not as prevalent during the 1970s when there seemed to be a greater optimism and a more intensive national effort to improve the literacy of children and adults.