Media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication. It is an expanded conceptualization of literacy that includes the ability to access and analyze media messages as well as create, reflect, and take action, using the power of information and communication to make a difference in the world. Media literacy is not restricted to one medium and is understood as a set of competencies that are essential for work, life, and citizenship.
Media literacy education is the process used to advance media literacy competencies, and it is intended to promote awareness of media influence and create an active stance towards both consuming and creating media. Media literacy education provides tools to help people develop receptive and critical thinking skills that enable them to better understand and interpret media messages.
Some key aspects of media literacy include:
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Decoding media messages: This involves understanding the meaning behind media messages, including the systems in which they exist.
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Assessing the influence of media: This involves evaluating the impact that media messages have on individuals and society.
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Creating media: This involves using media to create messages that express ones own ideas and perspectives.
Media literacy is important because it expands the concept of literacy to include the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in a variety of forms. It offers a solution to public health issues, such as body image issues and substance use, exacerbated by toxic media messages. Media literacy empowers all people to engage in a global media environment.
