Literacy Links

The foundations of human development are laid during a child's early years, and early childhood requires an integrated approach to a child's care, development and learning. Early childhood care and education (ECCE) is more than a preparatory stage assisting the child’s transition to formal schooling. Today, early childhood policies are placed within a broader context of social development, gender equity and poverty reduction.

• The Queensland School Curriculum Council (1997) has defined literacy as being "the ability to communicate by reading, speaking, listening and viewing".

• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) stated purpose is to contribute to peace and security by promoting international collaboration through education, science, and culture. UNESCO has drafted the following definition of Literacy:"... the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, communicate and compute, using printed and written materials associated with varying contexts. Literacy involves a continuum of learning to enable an individual to achieve his or her goals, to develop his or her knowledge and potential, and to participate fully in the wider society."

• Literacy, the Key to Learning - Queensland Government information about literacy.

• Dave Eggers' address on addressing literacy (USA)

• National Literacy Trust (UK)

Other Links

• What could I do?