Multiliteracies and discussion-based teaching

This chapter describes a pedagogical cluster that combines two inter-related main approaches: multiliteracies and discussion-based teaching. While multiliteracies focuses on the multiplicity and diversity of platforms and languages that learners require to become literate, discussion-based teaching revolves on the critical and cultural variables through which learners actively construct the meaning of texts. The chapter opens with the importance of an active, reflective and cultural understanding of literacy and the need to foster critical thinking skills. Then the discussion focuses on key elements for the effective implementation of these pedagogies, including the identification of particular challenges that need to be addressed. The chapter then explores the suitability of this approach for young learners and its potential impact on those students most at risk. It is highlighted how this approach can prepare learners to negotiate and interchange interpretations and ideas, as well as the need for teachers to adopt a less authoritative role and improve their awareness of students’ lives and experiences.