22nd World Congress on Reading opens in Costa Rica

  The International Reading Association’s 22nd World Congress on Reading in San Jose, Costa Rica, has gotten off to a rousing start, with 1,200 preregistrants and many more on-site registrants enjoying a program featuring top speakers, a host of professional development sessions, and a chance to interact with colleagues from around the world. A festive Welcoming Reception opened the Congress on Monday evening. The reception, supported by the Pearson Foundation, included food and a demonstration of traditional Costa Rican dancing.

IRA President Barbara Walker officially opened the World Congress at the Opening General Session on Tuesday, which featured presentations by several noted Costa Rican educators. Olman Segura Bonilla, president of the National University of Costa Rica, said adults need to set an example of reading for young learners and help them realize both the power and pleasure of reading.

The day’s activities continued with a variety of sessions, along with other featured speakers. Rob Tierney of the University of British Columbia addressed “Literacies for Changing Worlds.” Noting the many opportunities that technology offers to teachers and learners, he concluded that in education, “we’re too focused on economic development and achievement.” He urged educators instead to focus on liberating people to use education to better their lives in general.

Tuesday’s activities closed with a Storytelling and Poetry Night. Featured storytellers Brett Dillingham and Christine McMahon, both of the United States, entertained listeners with lively tales, and several members of the audience stood up to share their own poems or stories.

Watch for further World Congress coverage on Reading Today Daily and in the August/September issue of Reading Today.