For Discussion and Defense of the Role of ‘Literary’ Texts in the English Curriculum

Saturday 18 February 2012, 10AM-6PM
Meiji Gakuin University Shirokane Campus, Tokyo
Literaphobia: Causes and Cures

In this digital age of runaway technology, 3D films, unlimited megabytes and cyber-living, learners too often feel afraid of or intimidated by old-school ‘analog’ literature. When compared to the daily diet of downloadable answers, text messages and tweets, authentic writing — challenging, crafted texts of multiple meanings— can seem just too difficult. Rather than looking beneath the surface, reading repeatedly, and spending time processing, most students choose the spoon-fed comforts of consumerism to ‘borrow’ ideas, opinions, and emotions. With so much fun and ‘instant knowledge’ to be had at the touch of a keystroke, students become afraid of approaching literate, articulate, and problematic materials.

The third Liberlit Conference will examine the causes of students’ fear of picking up a book, newspaper, or serious film. Effective ways of guiding students’ learning are often teachers’ best-kept secrets, so this year we want to examine constructive cures to this educational dilemma. How do teachers negotiate difficult material with students? Above and beyond the classroom texts and techniques, what attitudes, approaches and ways of interacting are most effective? What ‘value-added’ elements of teaching turn thought-provoking materials into meaningful education? This year’s conference theme takes a step back from the nitty-gritty of daily instruction to look at the wider environment and broader mindset we try to foster in order to motivate students towards that elusive goal: truly higher education.

Register for Liberlit Conference 2012!

Please register for the upcoming conference by filling in the super-simple form below. We have reduced the conference fees this year: 3000 yen for teachers and FREE for all graduate and undergraduate students (with ID). The fees are payable on the day of the conference. Help us prepare by letting us know you are coming!

Name * E-mail * University * Position * Contact Address * Would you like us to contact you about next year’s conference and our upcoming events? * Yes No Type the characters you see in the picture below