The article Too Dumb for Complex Texts?
by Mark Bauerlein proposes that students should receive regular instruction
reading complex texts. The author suggests high school curriculums require
students to spend one hour a day developing habits that allow them to
adequately process complicated works of writing. While the article doesn’t dismiss the use of
technology, the author feels students are not prepared for tasks that require uninterrupted
thinking because of the distractions imposed by technology. I agree that all students need more
instruction and practice developing deep reading skills.
In order to thoroughly understand complex
text, students must reread, attend to difficult concepts, grasp knew vocabulary
and understand subtle messages presented by the writer. All of these skills must be taught and
practiced in order to gain mastery. In
era of texting, blogging and abstracts, students do not necessarily receive exposure
to texts that require in-depth reading. Unless
students receive instruction and opportunities to practice reading complex text
in school, they may not have the opportunity on their own.
Because
complex texts require careful thought and deliberation for an extended period
of time, we need to help students build the stamina necessary for the task. A person doesn’t start out running marathons.
It takes time and practice for the body to adjust to running such a long distance. Learning to read complex text requires the
same time of repetition. Students need
gradual exposure over time to text of varying degrees of difficulty. Educators need to provide uninterrupted time and
materials for students to develop the endurance necessary to read complex text.
As society becomes more and more dependent on
digital print, we need to critically assess how we are utilizing this new
technology. Digital print certainly has
a function and a place in our schools. However, as educators, we cannot neglect
teaching our students how to slow down and examine text in a comprehensive
manner.
Anne, I loved your analogy about running marathons. I completely agree that we must help our students gain the stamina necessary to understand these complex texts. It is so important to have that uninterrupted time to encourage endurance to read complex texts. I also agree that there is a time and place for the use of technology. We must not, however, forget to teach our students to slow down and examine what they are reading.
ReplyDelete