Literacy, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is the ability to read and write. According to the National Adult Literacy Survey, as many as 23% (40-44 million) of the adult American population is functionally illiterate, lacking the basic skills beyond a fourth-grade level. The more devastating fact is that illiterate adults were first illiterate children, and in a country as advanced as America, that is unacceptable. The opinions as to the cause of high illiteracy rates amongst children in America are many. While there are just as many opinions regarding the best solutions to increasing literacy in children, one of the most powerful solutions lie in the relationship between educational and technology. The use of electronic technology in education is a fundamental necessity in increasing literacy in children.
Electronics in education are used to improve both the learning and teaching experience of the student and teacher, respectively. Although many school systems across the country are already taking advantage of electronic technology, there are those that are not benefiting from such a great educational advancement. Numerous authorities recognize electronic technology as having a fundamental impact on literacy in children. "with technology, education has taken a whole new meaning that it leaves us with no doubt that our educational system has been transformed owing to the ever-advancing technology. Technology and education are a great combination if used together with a right reason and vision" (Saxena).
What is it that makes electronic technology so great? "Technology opens doors to extend learning, and technology instruction is not restricted to a computer. It adds that considering classroom instruction that uses technology to increase learning is an exciting area of education that is growing quickly" (Cummins). What is it that children who have access in the classroom to electronic technology receive that those without this technology do not receive? While technology should not be the sole means of learning, it is a definite compliment to education.
