Functonal illiteracy as a consequence of a language sign’s loss of its dominant function in digital information environment

Abstract

The author explores neurophysiological grounds of functional illiteracy that appear due to formation of a specific semiosis in digital information environment. Internet users utilize natural language as a means of signification and analysis of reality but at the same time the frequency of using visual signs that reduplicate clichéd information deliberately is growing. Dissemination of information via imitating its content in simple clichéd standard formats (cultural memes) destroys evolutionally formed mechanism of natural verbal sign based semiosis generation. Thus the process of gradual alienation of meaning from the language is carried out. This means that contemporary digital information culture has all the conditions for development of population’s cultural illiteracy. School education’s focus on testing knowledge rather than testing and/or forming competences and skills is a prerequisite for establishing such conditions.