What Do I Need to Know about Media Literacy?
Tim Wollenzien | January 17, 2022
It seems like we’re hearing more and more about media literacy these days, and many educators and parents are wondering where to go to learn about it and become better guides for our students. Tools and techniques for navigating media literacy are available for media users and creators of all ages, and our team at Prairie Public can help with resources and tools for kids, from pre-kindergarten students to high school seniors.
There are many different ways to approach understanding more about media literacy. We all know that there are many things for teachers to consider when approaching the topic with students. Media literacy is different for all age groups, and any interventions we use with students really need to be approached intentionally. Fortunately, our Education Services team at Prairie Public has some resources and support for you, no matter your comfort level with media literacy.
First, let’s take a look at the many interpretations of media today. When we hear the word “media”, what comes to mind and what association do we give to the word? Perhaps one of these: mass media, news media, media arts, media maker, media influencers, “The Media”? When we think of a definition, we often think of these methods of sharing information and content whether it’s news, information, opinion or a human-interest feature.
Then, we have media when it’s meant to describe vehicles for sharing information (or content), such as video, audio and digital. We could say that books, magazines and newspapers are also media. As are posters, student compositions, memes, sheet music and any other method of creating and sharing information.
As parents and educators, how do we navigate this wide world of media? Where do we turn for accurate knowledge, trusted resources and guidance for our children and students, no matter their age? There are many places to start, but as a parent and educator myself I’d suggest a stop on the Prairie Public Education Services website and associated links for sources to answer questions about guiding both adult and student understanding of media and media literacy.
Students have always been media makers, and now have more vehicles than ever with which to create, share and learn. They use what’s comfortable, intuitive and fun and they’re surprisingly good at it. If you have contact with kids of any age, you’ll know that many of them are very comfortable with the super-computers that lives in their hands, pockets and backpacks! As adults and as members of generations removed from the youth of today, we may not comprehend all the media platforms and methods that are in use. Don’t worry! You’re not alone! Surely, you’ve heard of TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Stitch and other popular platforms in use by younger people today. How do we channel some of their enthusiasm and creativity with these apps into projects and experiences that are relevant and meaningful, rich and authentic? We owe it to our kids and students to be aware of how they are using media, their media literacy.
So, once again I invite you to check out the links and resources on our website. Challenge yourself in the new year to take a PD course on media literacy, work towards certification in media literacy, encourage your students to create new media through StoryMaker, participate in the NPR Student Podcast Challenge or set up a free account in PBS LearningMedia and start using more great content from public media.