There is an immensely important conjunction between literacy and Information
and Communications Technology (ICT). This book considers the application of
ICT in raising and widening literacy achievements within the classroom, and
explores ways that ICT can be harnessed to help students develop their literacy
skills.

Teaching Secondary School Literacies with ICT supports educators in this aim
by offering creative examples of good practice. It provides commentary and
research into what adolescent students are doing, both in formal education
and socially, with regard to ICT and literacy, including:

• Computer mediated communication


• Literacy implications of computer games and chatrooms


• Parents and children using the internet at home, and the implicit literacy skills
  involved

Several contributors provide useful insights into the debate around teenage
literacy cultures and literacy in schools. For example, in schools, word processing
and keyboard skills are valued; yet thumb-controlled technologies (games con-
soles, texting) are denigrated. This book argues that if we are to encourage pupils
to develop the literacy skills they need for the 21st century, we need a more
positive and creative response to these popular forms of literacy.

This inspiring book is key reading for trainee and practising teachers, literacy
advisers and policy makers.

Moira Monteith is an educational consultant. She was previously a principal
lecturer in ICT in Education at Sheffield Hallam University, and before that
a teacher. Her previous publications include ICT in the Primary School
(Open University Press, 2002).