Literacy is an important component of any society, but it’s more complex than having the ability to read the words on the page.

Reading comprehension is something that many children and even some adults struggle with. Fully understanding a text requires careful observation skills that are best developed at a young age.

Dr. Timothy Rasinski will cover this issue among several others during the annual Hot Topics in Literacy conference on Oct. 11 in Sage Hall from 8 a.m-2:45 p.m.. Rasinski teaches literacy education at Kent State and has served on the Board of Directors of the International Reading Association. He’s even been elected to the International Reading Hall of Fame.

Students or faculty who are interested in the conference should register online by clicking the link here. The registration fee is $40 for students and $75 for staff and includes lunch.

A one credit course is also being offered to graduate students who attend the event. The course must be paid for separately through Titan Web and requires participants to attend three sessions in addition to the conference: Friday, October 10, 5-8 p.m.; at the conference all day Saturday, October 11; and Wednesday evening, November 19.

For more information visit the College of Education and Human Services site here.