Part I

Welcome to our course on Pluriliteracies Teaching for Deeper Learning. Today, we will explore the concept of “pluriliteracies” and why it is crucial in modern language education.

So, what are pluriliteracies? Coyle and Meyer (2021, p. 37) state: “The concept of pluriliteracies, therefore, is a highly dynamic one. It is open to enabling learners to understand and develop ways in which cultural and linguistic contexts and social relations influence and impact literacy practices within and beyond schooling”. Simply put, pluriliteracies refer to the ability to communicate effectively across different languages, cultures, and contexts. It goes beyond traditional literacy to encompass a range of skills necessary in our 21^st century interconnected world.

The concept of “pluriliteracies” recognizes that in today’s globalized society, individuals often need to navigate multiple languages and cultural contexts simultaneously. This approach integrates content and language learning, acknowledging that language is not just a subject to be studied, but a medium through which we learn about the world.

Coyle et al. (2023) put it simply and graphically: “Classroom learning using PTDL principles is about joining the dots – making transparent the necessary connections needed to construct deeper learning episodes.”

The importance of pluriliteracies in language education cannot be overstated. It prepares learners for real-world scenarios where they will need to apply their language skills in diverse contexts. It also promotes cognitive flexibility, cultural awareness, and a deeper understanding of how language shapes our perception of the world.