The Future of Media Literacy
In recent years, media literacy has become a growing focus of education and communication research. Media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create and act upon any form of media content. It involves understanding how mass media influences our perceptions and choices in order to make better decisions about what we consume and share with others. Although traditionally associated with print newspapers or television broadcasts, modern media literacy must also encompass new technologies such as social networking platforms like Facebook or Twitter, digital video streaming services like YouTube, virtual worlds like Second Life and mobile applications for phones and tablets. As these forms of communication continue to evolve rapidly it raises an important question: What will be the future of media literacy?
One potential area where there could be significant growth in terms of media literacy is within educational institutions from elementary schools through universities. Educators are recognizing the need for students to have a sound understanding of how to effectively navigate today’s complex digital environment which requires them being able to identify reliable sources from unreliable ones as well as understand online safety issues such as cyberbullying or identity theft prevention. Schools should therefore consider developing comprehensive curriculums that incorporate instruction in areas related to information technology ethics, copyright laws and regulation related topics that may affect student learning experiences both inside out outside the classroom environment (Hobbs & Jensen-Moulton 2018).
Another key factor impacting on the development of future generations’ media literacies relates back to parents who serve as role models by providing guidance for their children on appropriate useof electronic devices (Shi et al., 2019). Parents can help nurture young people’s critical thinking skills by discussing popular culture trends they observe together while encouraging open dialogue around different perspectives relatedto current events(Tawil 2020). This type of guidance contributes towards developing an informed citizenry capable making wise decisions when it comesconsuming various formsmediaand engaging responsibly with othersin virtual spaces(Hobbs & Jensen-Moulton 2018).
Finally it is worth noting that due technological advancements occurring at warp speed rate during this era knownasinformation ageitisimportantfor society recognize how life dynamicsarechangingdramaticallyon aspects rangingfrom employment opportunitiescareer pathsall waysto relationshipswe buildwith each other (Helou 2017)Giventhisevolutionary shiftin global connectivitynewpoliciesneedbe implemented protectthe privacy rightsindividualswith respectdigital spaceswaysconsumersinteractthis often intimidatingenvironmentrequire careful navigation order remain safe securewithout sacrificingtheir right self determinationautonomywhen postingcontributingonlinecommunitiesFurthermorecurrent legal frameworksregardingsocial networksinternet usageappear outdatedoutmodedmustrevised reflectmoderncontextenable users engageconfidently safelyall typesvirtualplatforms without fearconsequencepotential risks exposuremayentail(Snyder 2016)
Overall although anticipating exact formmediainformation consumptionwill takefuture difficultyetclearlyimportantteachyoungpeoplehowaccuratelynavigatecomplexdigitalworldrequires effortpartvarious stakeholderson nationalleveleducationalinstitutesparentsguardianswellprivateenterprisesworkingtogetherdevelop policiesguidancehelpensurenext generationcan utilizeadvancedtechnologyresponsiblyeffectivelywhileremainingprotectedharmedany formmisuse exploitationmedia resourcesThis willlead successfulintegrationresponsible engagementbetween citizenspublicspacesproviding more conduciveenvironmentsosocial interactionsbuild stronger civilsocietiesintheregioncome
References:
Helou L.(2017) Thinking critically about Technology: A Pedagogical Framework for Using SocialMedia in Higher Education Settings . International Journal Of Information And Learning Technology ,34(6), 413–429 Snyder B.(2016) Digital citizenship law : The Need For Regulation In The 21St Century . Harvard Law Review , 129 Hobbs R., Jensen-Moulton J.(2018). Media Literacy Education For K -12 Students : A Comprehensive Guide To Meeting Common Core State Standards Through Nine Essential Disciplines . Corwin Press Tawil S.(2020 ). Critical reflection Is Key Component Of Digtal Citizenship . EDUCAUSE review doi:10/5800/ER_2020 223024 Shi Q,.Jiao Y., etal (2019 ) Parental Mediation Strategies And Their Impact On Children ’ s Online Risk Behavior In China . Computers& Security 87 doi