The concept of multimodal literacy and its role in the multiliteracies approach

Abstract

In the present study, a discussion is proposed regarding the concept of multimodal literacy and its role in the multiliteracies approach. The objective of the research is twofold: first, to identify how the current literature conceptualizes multiliteracies and multimodal literacy, concerning definitions, characteristics, knowledge involved and pedagogical frameworks in each one; and, secondly, to verify the role of the multimodal literacy in relation to the multiliteracies. Furthermore, this analysis offers a debate on researches about the topic which aims at defining multimodal literacy and clarifying to what extent each of these studies are consensual or divergent in their discussions.