The concept of new literacies seems overwhelming, even daunting. With the profound influence of technology in our lives, the definition of literacy has naturally expanded beyond the three Rs of reading, writing and arithmetic. The 2011 issue of Dialogue explores 21st-century teaching and learning through new literacies and skills students need in an increasingly knowledge-based and interconnected world.

We asked educators and other top minds in our Innovators and Experts section. What 21st-century skills or new literacies will be essential to prepare students for life and work?

We invite you to continue the discussion and debate with fellow educators and top experts on DialogueOnline.ca by sharing your comments, articles and ideas. At times, many of us may feel “lost amid a billion voices”. But by joining the dialogue and sharing ideas, the concept of new literacies doesn’t have to be intimidating anymore.

—Christl Dabu