Media and Information Literacy (MIL) competencies of language and communication students

Abstract

This descriptive study aims at identifying the level of media and information literacy (MIL) competencies of Language and Communication students in the Philippines using UNESCO’s Access, Evaluation and Creation components. A self-report survey of a small sample of university students was conducted and findings show that respondents have an intermediate MIL competency along the three components. But most participants struggled to recognize the concept of metadata and indexing and the practice of creating arguments using evidence and drawing conclusions from information. They also struggle with the application of international standards and requirements for new knowledge creation in an ethical manner. These findings indicate the need for continuous development of language and communication students’ MIL competencies as these are vital to the formation of tomorrow’s teachers, as well as communication and media professionals.