In today's society, everyone plays a dual role as both a consumer and a producer of content. Social media platforms serve as vital channels for communication and information exchange, bombarding us with a myriad of content. We receive, process, and engage with this influx of information daily. However, amidst this abundance, how do we ensure the credibility of the content we encounter, whether it's online, in print, or within educational settings? This is where the concept of media literacy becomes crucial.

What is media literacy and why is it important?

 

To understand this, let's break down the term. It consists of 'media' and 'literacy'. Literacy refers to the ability to speak, write, and express oneself to be understood, skills that we consider essential for interacting with our surroundings. Thus, media literacy encompasses the ability to discern various forms of media, comprehend their underlying messages, and discern the motives behind them, particularly understanding the identity of the creators. It's not just about consuming information but understanding its context and source.

Media literacy in education: navigating the digital landscape

The significance of media literacy is on the rise, especially within education, where educators are recognising its pivotal role. Teachers are grappling with how to equip students with the necessary skills to navigate and critically evaluate the overabundance of information available to them online.

Furthermore, media literacy is intrinsically linked with technological advancements. Strengthening our media literacy abilities relies on refining our digital skills. In today's digital age, these competencies are not only desirable but essential for both educators and students alike.

Recognising its importance, UNESCO and its member states have designated the 19th of March as the International Day for Digital Learning, highlighting the urgency of addressing these issues in the modern educational landscape.

"Digital skills and media literacy are increasingly becoming a key component of foundational learning – without which individuals cannot participate effectively and responsibly in social, civic, and economic life"

 

Thus, we find ourselves wondering: what specific initiatives are being undertaken to support the education system, teachers, and students in enhancing their media literacy skills? Additionally, how can we encourage these individuals to take the lead in implementing media literacy initiatives both within their classrooms and on a broader scale across Europe and beyond?

 

How The Media Literacy Case for Educators project is transforming education

 

The Media Literacy Case for Educators, a project led by European Schoolnet (EUN), the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA), Save the Children (Italy), and Tactical Tech, marks a revolutionary collaboration. Co-funded by the European Union, this project aims to equip teachers, educators, and librarians across Europe with a comprehensive set of co-developed and creative tools, resources, methods, and materials, ensuring their readiness for the next digital decade.

"The MLCE project outputs and activities allow educational professionals to enhance their media literacy skills and competences, future proofing them for the next digital decade." Stated Sabrina Vorbau, project manager for the Digital Citizenship Department at European Schoolnet.

European Schoolnet plays a pivotal role in the MLCE project, primarily overseeing the engagement and training of educational professionals, including teachers and representatives from the European network of Safer Internet Centres. One of the project's key outputs is a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC), currently under development by European Schoolnet and scheduled to run from 5th May to 12th June 2024 on the European Schoolnet Academy. Comprising four modules, the MOOC will be open to all educational professionals interested in media literacy and related topics.

Furthermore, European Schoolnet is organising two training sessions for Safer Internet Centres and teachers from across Europe to further utilise project resources and materials. The latter session will take place at the end of June 2024 in the Future Classroom Lab (FCL) of European Schoolnet.

This initiative, led by European Schoolnet, resonates with its numerous projects focusing on digital skills. Whether it's through ongoing projects such as Better Internet for Kids (BIK) or The Digital Skills and Jobs Platform, or by spotlighting the topic at its recent flagship event: Eminent 2023 - Empowering Schools with Digital Skills, European Schoolnet remains committed to placing societal issues at the forefront of its mission to revolutionise education. This transformation and improvement of the education system cannot occur without the support of its key stakeholders. These individuals must have access to the necessary tools to promote inclusive, adaptive, and future-oriented education.

 

To delve deeper into the project, we encourage you to visit Tactical Tech. Additionally, explore European Schoolnet's initiative on Digital Citizenship. For insightful perspectives and thought-provoking discussions from experts, delve into the key insights from our EMINENT conference.

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