"Complex texts require single-tasking, an unbroken, and unbotherd focus. Digital activities foster multitasking and constant interaction." Are these two different approaches "caught" or taught?
Again, these questions really do not have binary answers do they? Is the single-tasking, unbroken, and unbothered focus that Mark Bauerlein says is required for complex texts taught or caught? It is both taught in school and caught through our culture, or at least it should be. Each task is different, teaching students to actually enjoy reading enough to have an unbroken focus is something that should be modeled at home as well as taught at school.
In our overly technological American world it is difficult, if not impossible for us as adults to find time to focus on one single task. We have students who are immersed with technology from early child hood, and this can teach kids to be constantly multitasking and to lack a singular focus. However to imply that this is the only reason that complex texts are so out of reach by students entering collage is a little narrow minded. Yes, to read complex texts, there needs to be a focus, however this is something that needs to be taught to students, and modeled to them as well. Also, the complex texts need to be engaging to the students, otherwise all the teaching about the importance of focus in the world is not going to make students want to give up the instant gratification that facebook or other technologies give them.
I agree, Sarah, with the belief that all of this can be caught and taught. I think you bring up a really interesting point when you highlight the fact that focus is not the only thing hindering kids' understanding of complex texts. There is a lot that can be done surrounding the presentation of complex texts, particularly in terms of creating engagement, that would also help students be successful in this realm.
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