Teachers Talk Shop, Season 2: Unveiling the 360° View of Literacy

by Patty McGee

Hello, Educators and Knowledge Seekers! Have you found yourself caught up in the "reading wars" debate, wondering if there's a way to bridge the gaps among the various messages you’re receiving about reading instruction? Well, your literacy musings are about to be enriched, and your curiosity satiated, as we unveil to you Season 2 of our Teachers Talk Shop podcast series: "A 360° View of Literacy."

While the Science of Reading is not new on the educational landscape, it has certainly garnered fresh attention in recent times. With the pandemic having reshaped our educational priorities, and reading scores undergoing fluctuations, we offer this podcast series to help all of us reevaluate our perspectives on teaching and literacy learning. But hold your bookmarks, dear readers, because here's where things get interesting.

We're diving headfirst into the world of reading—and no, it's not just about deciphering letters and forming words anymore. Join us as we navigate the uncharted waters of literacy education, debunk misconceptions, and unravel the intricacies of the Science of Reading. Along the way, you’ll hear from leading experts in the field such as Tim Rasinski and David Liben, classroom teachers such as Cameron Carter, and college professors such as Gina Cervetti and Allison Briceño—to name just a few!

Perhaps you’ve heard some folks argue that the code has already been cracked on reading instruction. We're here to share with you that there's always more to explore beneath the surface. At Benchmark Education, our phonics instructional resources are beloved by educators. But we're not content with stopping there. We're bringing you a 360° view of literacy, one that will have you pondering the myriad, multifaceted, and essential skills it includes.

Think of it as literacy exploration from all angles. Sure, learning to read is crucial, but what about writing, speaking, listening, viewing, and engagement? Our podcast is your compass in this expansive literacy landscape.

The experts, educators, researchers, and thinkers we’ve invited to the microphone will engage in fascinating discussions, share groundbreaking insights, and challenge common preconceptions. Get ready to be enlightened as we delve into the five core understandings that drive our 360° view of literacy:

1. Validated Research: Illuminating Teaching and Learning

   Say goodbye to unsubstantiated claims and hello to evidence-based practices. We're putting the spotlight on strategies and methodologies that have stood the test of rigorous research.

   In a world where information is abundant and sometimes conflicting, it's crucial to sift through the noise and focus on what truly works. Our podcast will delve into research that sheds light on effective reading instruction. With validated insights, educators and parents alike can gain a deeper understanding of the methods that genuinely foster reading proficiency. Together we leave behind the one-size-fits-all approach and embrace teaching methods rooted in solid evidence.

2. The Connected Processes of Learning to Read: More Than Meets the Eye

   Reading is not a linear journey. Peel back the layers of reading acquisition as we explore the complex, interconnected web of cognitive processes that make up the reading experience. From phonological awareness to comprehension strategies, decoding to critical thinking, each element contributes to the reader's development and growth. Through insightful discussions and expert interviews, our podcast will unravel these intricate processes, offering you a comprehensive view of what it truly takes to become a proficient reader.

3. Integrated Literacies: A Multidimensional Symphony

   Reading isn't a solo act—it's a symphony of reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing, and engagement. We're harmonizing these elements for a well-rounded literacy experience. Gone are the days when literacy meant merely decoding words on a page. Today's world demands a multifaceted approach that encompasses various modes of communication. Our podcast will delve into the interconnectedness of reading, writing, speaking, and listening, revealing how these skills augment each other.

4. Supporting Every Learner: Addressing Cognitive, Linguistic, Cultural, and Social Diversity

   Education isn't one-size-fits-all, and neither is our podcast. We’ll emphasize the importance of tailoring reading instruction to meet the unique needs of every learner, from striving readers to gifted students, and we will share effective strategies and techniques for achieving that goal. By celebrating the individuality of each reader, we're not just creating better learners; we're fostering a more inclusive and enriching reading culture.

5. Elevating Professional Learning: Support for the Single Greatest Influence on Student Achievement

   We're championing continuous growth through professional development because an empowered teacher empowers readers. Teachers are the heart of effective literacy instruction, and our podcast recognizes their pivotal role. We'll spotlight the significance of ongoing professional study, offering insights and resources that embolden educators to refine their instructional practices. By staying up to date with the latest research and methodologies, teachers can create more engaging and effective reading experiences for their students.

So, dear listeners, get ready for a whirlwind of words, ideas, and perspectives and a journey through the expansive realm of literacy. Join us for Teachers Talk Shop: A 360° View of Literacy, where every episode is a literacy adventure waiting to be experienced. Let's unravel the true magic of reading together, one conversation at a time. Happy reading—and listening!