Ms. Malaya Attends Prestigious International Literacy Conference

The City Auditorium in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna, hosted the 1st International Literacy  Conference on the Science of Reading on April 15 to 17, 2024. Organized by the  Association of FIL-AM Teachers of America, Inc. and AFTA Philippine Chapter, Inc., the  event brought together educators and literacy advocates, including Ms. Janessa Angustia  M. Malaya, an Instructor II at the College of Arts and Sciences, with Mr. Benedic Baluyot,  faculty member of the College of Technological and Developmental Education, to explore  the latest advancements in reading instruction. 

The event featured renowned literacy experts Dr. Timothy Shanahan and Cynthia  Shanahan as keynote speakers, who provided deep insights into the science of reading  and its application in educational settings. Dr. Shanahan, a leading authority in literacy  education, focused on evidence-based practices for teaching reading. His presentation  emphasized the importance of phonological awareness, systematic phonics instruction,  fluency, vocabulary development, and comprehension strategies in building a strong  foundation for reading proficiency. 

Adding to the discourse, Cynthia Shanahan offered a compelling perspective on technology integration in literacy instruction. Her talk emphasized the role of technology  in fostering collaboration, facilitating personalized instruction, and creating dynamic  learning environments that adapt to individual learning styles and preferences. 

The Shanahans’ presentations collectively illuminated the future of literacy education,  highlighting the need for educators to align their instructional practices with the evolving  science of reading. This alignment is crucial in cultivating literate citizens equipped to  navigate and thrive in an increasingly complex digital world. 

The 1st International Literacy Conference on the Science of Reading marked a significant  step forward in the global effort to promote literacy, providing educators with the tools and  knowledge necessary to address the challenges of teaching reading in the 21st century.