Literacy in theory and practice.
Literacy is the ability to read and write. Acquisition of literacy can take place theoretically or practically. Knowledge is aimed at enlightening people and is beneficial to people. Literacy can be acquired formally in learning institutions or by practical observation. Education improves the intellectual competence of people. Western countries introduced formal education to Africa. This aim was to promote literacy. However, it worth noting that practical learning was already taking place in Africa long before the Europeans came.
The western countries have invested a lot on education to promote literacy. This has can be viewed as a political and ideological importance. It is to strengthen the understanding of people about their environment. An enlightened people have understanding and very vital in the development of a county. This is why the Western countries have invested much in education. For one to acquire literacy, language is an important factor that contributes to learning. Language promotes interpersonal relationship between individuals. Learning through oral language influences the learner’s perception and can have much impact than other forms of language. It often directed at specific individuals with the intention to influence the perception of that individual. It is important as it can control the action of the learner. The speaker and the teacher can constantly adjust, according to the perception of the speaker and the hearer. (pg 19).
On the other hand, written language is to convey messages in a written form. The interpersonal relationship is between the speaker and the hearer is greatly affected. This is because the hearer and the speaker may not necessarily be together. The invention of writing skills enabled learning to take place effectively. However, the learning process still takes place whether through oral or written language. Study analysis indicates that the difference between schooled and the unschooled are brought about by the difference between the oral and written language. ( pg 21). Oral language is more precise as there is a direct contact and the speaker can often adjust the methods of relaying the message the listener is able inquire clarification where necessary. The language learning sequence is followed to the latter. However, this method is not as widespread as written language. That means that oral language reaches a smaller group of people as compared to written language. Learning through formal education is based on the context.(pg 33)
In conclusion, literacy infers superior logical functions in an individual and equips him for life challenges. Oral language promotes social integration and stabilizes relationships.
Reference
Street, B. (1984). Literacy in Theory and Practice. New York: Cambridge University Press.
