LIBE 477 - Reading Assignment Part A

 

When I think of my role as a Teacher Librarian where digital media is concerned, the thing that stands out to me most is teaching students to be informed consumers and creators of digital media. As citizens we have been inundated by media for decades, but because of access to digital media, we have access to a volume of media like never before. That access is amazing in so many ways, but it is not without its dark sides. Students need nuanced media literacy skills to navigate what they see, where they seek out their media, and how to critically evaluate what they see, read, and hear. 

The internet has allowed marginalized individuals to find community. A queer youth in an isolated community can reach out to others in the queer community without being restricted by geography. Social justice warriors can rally together across the globe and educate others about the issues they are passionate about. 

Digital media is so powerful because it can be accessed by so many and anyone with access to the technology can also create content to share with the world. That access that makes digital media so powerful also means individuals and groups with ill intent can also readily get their message across. 

I want to work with students to empower them to analyze the media they choose to consume and how to contribute to digital media in positive and powerful ways.

As well, I am interested in looking at links between mental health and social medial use.

Key words 

critical analysis
representation
media literacy

bias
gender in media
sistemic racism
internet safety
cyber bullying
ethics
equitable access
social justice
social connection
online community
social change
global dialogue 
role of media in shaping culture
hidden messages
fake news
social media and mental health