We live in an age dominated by screens. From our smartphones to tablets to computers and TVs, we are constantly consuming media. This 24/7 bombardment of images, videos, GIFs, memes and more has made “media literacy” a critical skill.
But has our education system failed to adequately prepare younger generations for the media-saturated world they live in? There are worrying signs that media literacy education is inadequate in this country.
What is Media Literacy Education?
Media literacy education aims to teach people critical thinking skills for analyzing and evaluating media. It focuses on making you an active, aware media consumer rather than a passive recipient. Critical concepts taught include:
- All media messages are constructed. They aren’t neutral or “objective.”
- Media messages shape our attitudes, beliefs and behaviors. We internalize stories and values from TV, movies, advertising and other formats.
- People interpret the same media messages differently based on their unique identities, experiences and biases. Your perception isn’t universal.
- Media has embedded values and points of view. Every news article, TV show and meme has a perspective.
- Media is created for profit and power. There are economic, political, social and/or personal motives behind each message.
- Media relies on media conventions. Recurring styles and techniques frame the message.
When taught properly, media literacy education equips people to be critical, reflective thinkers about the media they consume and produce. But is this education happening effectively?
The Failure of Media Literacy Education
Despite recognizing its importance, media literacy education still needs improvement. There are several reasons for this failure:
- There is no standard curriculum. Media literacy education needs to establish standards or frameworks. There needs to be more consistency across schools on what key concepts are taught.
- Not widely taught. Media literacy concepts aren’t integrated into core subjects like English, history or civics where they naturally fit. They’re relegated to supplementary courses that not all students experience.
- Tech moves faster than curriculum. Our info ecosystem evolves rapidly, while instructional materials fail to adapt in real-time. Educators aren’t supported in responding to our fast-changing media terrain.
- Lack of teacher training. Teachers must be formally trained in media literacy principles and how to integrate them into instruction. It’s not broadly covered in teacher professional development.
- Low priority. Basic skills and testing competencies crowd out media literacy in schools. Administrators need to recognize its value beyond traditional academics.
With these systemic failures, students need to be more prepared to manage their dizzying media environments. This jeopardizes their ability to thrive as informed, engaged citizens.