Digital Media Literacy Practices for 5th Year Pre-Service Teachers in a PDS Model

Abstract

To examine digital media literacy practices in a teacher education program, this chapter first elaborates on a broader definition of literacy than reading and writing, suggesting media literacy as a more relevant teacher education curricular focus than technology integration. A five-year, dual-degree teacher education program, which uses a Professional Development School model, provides the context for digital media literacy practices. Three elective courses demonstrate how digital media can be used by pre-service teachers to engage students and model media practices in their public school placement. The courses, which were offered to pre-service teachers in their fifth year in the teacher education program, included Book Writing and Online Publishing, Project-Based Learning, and Teaching with Visuals. The chapter provides recommendations on implementing digital media practices within teacher education courses for pre-service teachers and professional development for teachers in public schools.