The International Literacy Research Unit aims to study literacy and language and associated areas of policy and practice of mutual interest. The original impetus for the formation of this unit came from realization that a conventional interpretation of the term "literacy" as basic reading and writing skills is inadequate in the context of global and local movements in education and language development today.

Ideally the concept of literacy can and should be examined from multiple perspectives that take into account approaches (such as historical, background, mainstream and alternative conceptions and contextual applications and applicability), relevant issues (political, ethical, economic and sociological), methodological considerations (such as functional and critical) and case studies (pertaining to among others, languages, gender, ethnicity, computers and media).

It is in this light, that USM has set up this research unit to understand literacy and the issues involved in researching literacy practices, especially from the perspectives of academic research, practitioner research and from that of ongoing investigative activities as part of literacy curriculum.

The International Literacy Research Unit is managed by the School of Humanities . University Science Malaysia .  The Mission of International Literacy Research Unit is to respond productively to the increased need for literacy and language learning issues related to both professional development and research.  With the support of the Malaysian Ministry of Education and private groups, we are making a difference by encouraging the value of lifelong learning in diverse settings.

CONTACT

International Literacy Research Unit
Block C20, Room 131&132
School of Humanities
Telephone : 04-6534181 / 04-6533858
Fax : 04-6573975
Website: http: //ilru.f2q.net