This document provides guidelines for developing media literacy. It defines mass communication as a source of information and entertainment that allows people to engage with worldwide issues and shape their identities. It recommends cultivating the ability to analyze, understand, and thoughtfully respond to media through actively interrogating messages, assessing media's influence, becoming aware of patterns, and exposing oneself to a range of sources. The key is becoming a sophisticated media user by mindfully engaging media to serve personal goals and actively responding instead of passively accepting portrayals.
4. DEVELOP MEDIA LITERACY Cultivate your ability to analyze, understand, and respond thoughtfully
5. 3 YEARS 6 MONTHS 4 YEARS 7-8 YEARS THROUGHOUT LIFE Stages In The Development Of Media Literacy
6. Realistically Assess Media's Influence Understanding how much influence you believe mass communication has on people.
7. Become Aware of Patterns in Media: Empowers you to engage media in critical and sophisticated ways.
8. Actively Interrogate Media Messages Use critical thought to assess what's presented Ask Questions: Why is this story getting so much attention? What are the sources? What was the hook? Who's viewpoint is the story being told in?
10. Expose Yourself to a Range of Media Sources: Mindful exposures are key to media literacy. Become informed.
11. Focus on Your Motivations for Engaging Media: Become a Sophisticated media user. Use media to serve your goals. Why are you watching what you're watching?
12. Respond Actively 2 nd guidline to use when interacting with media. Don't accept what's being portrayed. Question and challenge what media is asking you to think about.