Module 3: Quality of Life as a Context for Developing Meaningful Education Programs
Literacy is a Method of Connecting Students to Quality of Life
“Literacy unlocks the door to learning throughout life, is essential to development and health, and opens the way for democratic participation and active citizenship.”
Kofi Annan
On a macro level, in terms of a nation’s population, it is not difficult to understand the connection between literacy and quality of life. It is also significant on the micro level, for example as a person living with a disability.
Increasing a student’s literacy increases competence, opens up choices, increases their community presence, puts them in a position of respect, and promotes inclusion.
The following excerpt illustrates several lived experiences of how literacy can help boost quality of life:
“Students with the most significant disabilities can and do learn to read, write, and communicate, and their lives are qualitatively different as a result. Jaylen, who has severe cerebral palsy, can help his family make an important decision, explaining clearly through symbols and spelling on his communication aid that he wants a potentially life-threatening surgery because rewards outweigh the risks. Sally, who has ASD and has never spoken, can share her thoughts and feelings with her mother through a shared dialogue journal. Brandon, who has significant behavioral and psychological disorders, can write a letter to a camp director explaining clearly what is bothering him. Maggie, who has intellectual disabilities, can write her own chapter in a book about individuals with Down syndrome and their lives. Egan can create his own written schedules, Eron can communicate his love for his family, and Kirsty can gain employment as a secretary.”
page 30 of Comprehensive Literacy for All: Teaching Students with Significant Disabilities to Read and Write(Karen A. Erickson and David A. Koppenhaver)