How important is Media Literacy?

The 21st century has seen a huge advancement of new media and its availability to younger populations. Think of the growth of platforms like Instagram, Snapchat and Tiktok over the last two or three years.

The latest statistics show that students are consuming and making media at an alarming rate. Between 2000 and 2016 the global growth of internet usage was 900.4% with Oceania (mainly NZ and Australia) increasing at 261.4%. YouTube statistics show by the middle of 2019, 500 hours of video were being uploaded every minute onto their platform.

In this ever-changing world, a student’s ability to select and critique information is vital. It’s an area where teachers who learn and teach media literacy can have a profound impact.

The News Literacy Project argues that media literate students are better prepared for our complex world. They can decipher the complex messages they receive from traditional media such as television, radio and print as well as the internet.

Therefore, it is becoming more and more important for teachers to understand how to teach media literacy.

BENEFITS OF MEDIA LITERACY
Firstly, media literacy helps students become wiser consumers of media. By teaching them the skills of media literacy it helps to foster critical thinking within students. What is fake news? What steps can I take to ensure the source of this media is credible? Is this media good for my well being?

Secondly, media literate students are responsible producers of their own media. They can produce a range of media, suited to the task and audience. Furthermore, media literacy also fosters important, skills such as collaboration and critical thinking, because it encourages communication and teamwork.
For a great media literacy resource check out Kiwi Kids News Ltd – CLICK HERE

SOURCES
Why Today’s Students Need Media Literacy More Than Ever (fresno.edu)
News Literacy Project
57 Fascinating and Incredible YouTube Statistics | Brandwatch