The word literacy is used to describe the ability to read and write. Similarly, media literacy is simply the ability to identify different types of media and understand the messages they’re sending. Digital media has become a significant aspect of every part of society. The most important part of digital media is to understand how to best apply the media resources available for learning, and to use media creation tools to create compelling and effective communication products such as videos, audio podcasts, and Web sites (Trilling and Fadel, 2009).

Media literacy is important because we need to be able to distinguish right from wrong. The internet has given us a platform to store unimaginable amount of information, however, not all of the information we see will be true. As Julie Smith shared her passion and experience with mass communications, she mentioned that the internet has given all individuals an opportunity to become media producers. Many people will use social media platforms and websites to spread knowledge regarding topics they are most passionate about or spread awareness of certain issues for others to take into consideration. However, there are others who either do not know factual information about what they are writing, or deliberately fabricate information to mislead the public. Therefore, it is up to the reader to analyze and take initiative to figure out whether material posted online is true or not.

It is a common phenomenon that we like to engage in ideas, topics, and viewpoints that we agree with. It can be uncomfortable to accept a reasonable thought from another perspective as it challenges us to grow our thought processes and become more understanding of the world around us. An example given by Julie Smith is how we have the ability to “pull” news from wherever we want. This was not possible before the 2000’s become the amount of news out in the community was limited (i.e. news in local newspapers and television). Being able to “pull” certain news from an enormous pool of sources restricts us from gaining a larger insight on issues of interests. News media in particular is a business and you are only shown what you want to see, not what you need to see.

Varied views allow us to understand perspectives coming from the opposite side. It can give us an opportunity to educate ourselves on topics we may not generally get involved it. Because we become so involved with our thought processes for a certain topic, we may not realize that the other side also has valid points to make. Just because two people have different views, does not mean that one of them has to be wrong.

Conflict arises in open dialogues about media literacy and factual information because some individuals may be so determined about their own point of view they won’t take the responsibility to understand the other side.

Having a PLN that values media literacy is beneficial because it allows people to engage, ask questions, and understand correct information. Such a platform gives opportunity for individuals to grow and recognize differences but also appreciate the thoughts of others (assuming they are valid).

 

References:

EDCI_338. (2020, November 1). A01 – Smith, Julie. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_T9RghwJlI&feature=youtu.be

Trilling, B., and Fedel C. 2009. Media Literacy. Pp. 66 in 21st Century Skills: Learning for Life in Our Times. Jossey-Bass.