Media Literacy Research Articles

Empowering China’s older adults through online learning: Media literacy and its influence on well-being

ABSTRACT In today’s digital age, online learning has become vital for adapting to the rapid pace of technological advancement. Despite its growing importance, the motivations behind online learning and its benefits, particularly for older adults, remain underexplored. This study investigates the link between motivation and media literacy, as well as the influence of media literacy on emotional and financial well-being among older online users aged 60 to 81. Data were collected through a web-based survey of 312 Chinese participants. The findings reveal that motivation is a significant predictor of media literacy, which, in turn, positively impacts emotional well-being online. Furthermore, while higher media literacy is associated with greater income levels, this relationship appears unaffected by the users’ geographical locations. These insights underscore the need for tailored policies and customized training programs to better support the older adults in navigating the digital landscape in China.

Assessing Fitspiration Content: A Mixed Methods Study on the Effects of an Ecological Momentary Assessment on Body Appreciation, Social Comparison, and Media Literacy Among Young Women

ABSTRACT Viewing fitness content on social media is associated with body dissatisfaction among young women. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA), a form of intensive longitudinal measurement, can allow for the examination of differential media effects. EMAs about media in conjunction with health topics may influence participants’ awareness of the content to which they are exposed and possibly impact behaviors. We conducted an explanatory sequential mixed methods study to see whether an EMA focused on experiences with fitspiration content and body appreciation would be associated with changes in body appreciation, social comparison, and media literacy. We conducted a pretest posttest field experiment (N = 40) in which young women (ages 18–24) in Washington state completed a pretest sent via text message followed by two daily surveys over 4 days, followed by a posttest. We then conducted follow-up interviews with a subset of participants (N = 7) about their experiences. Paired samples t-tests revealed that the experience of completing the EMAs reduced participants’ social comparison. Our thematic analysis highlighted that participants’ study experiences impacted their awareness of the content to which they were exposed. They also were aware of potential mechanisms through which impacts may occur (e.g., self-comparison). The use of EMAs can positively impact outcomes relevant to body image, specifically, social comparison. Asking participants to reflect on their perceptions of the content to which they are exposed can call attention to such content as well as potential effects, serving an intervention function and potentially benefiting participants.

Decoding the Green Narrative: Exploring the Interplay between Media Literacy and Consumer Perceptions of Greenwashing

Decoding the Green Narrative: Exploring the Interplay between Media Literacy and Consumer Perceptions of Greenwashing

Ideology in Media Translation: Some Theoretical Perspectives

As media becomes more global and multilingual, understanding the impact of translation on news dissemination is crucial. Unlike traditional perspectives that view translation as a straightforward transfer between source and target texts, media translation operates within certain norms and practices. This article explores the role of ideology in media translation, emphasizing how translation is not merely a linguistic transfer but an ideological practice. Originating from the study of ideas, ideology has evolved to encompass frameworks of power and control, shaping how information is presented and interpreted across cultures. Through a theoretical lens, the article provides insights into the power dynamics embedded in media translation, affecting global communication and public perception. Such power dynamics shape narratives to align with specific cultural, political, or institutional agendas. Additionally, by analyzing some key theoretical insights from various scholars, the study examines the ethical dimensions of media translation. Therefore, through a synthesis of theoretical perspectives, this study challenges traditional notions of equivalence, positioning media translation as a transformative process, shaped by the interplay of ideology, power dynamics and ethics, while also offering critical insights into media literacy.

Countermeasures against fake news: a Delphi study

Purpose This study aims to address the growing challenge of fake news in undermining democratic governance. It aims to develop effective strategies to combat fake news-related crimes, which digital technology advancements and the proliferation of social media have exacerbated. Design/methodology/approach The research uses a Delphi study methodology, gathering insights from law enforcement agencies, policymakers and socio-technological experts. Through three rounds of data collection and analysis, this study builds consensus on critical interventions for mitigating the social risks of fake news crimes. Findings This study identifies critical interventions such as disinformation account monitoring, legislative reforms, public awareness initiatives and educational programmes to enhance media literacy. These strategies contribute to a comprehensive approach to countering the impacts of fake news. Practical implications The research provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and institutions to strengthen resilience against disinformation. It emphasises the importance of legislative, technological and educational measures to safeguard democratic processes and rebuild public trust. Originality/value This study contributes to the growing literature on fake news mitigation by offering a structured, expert-driven approach to developing countermeasures. Its focus on consensus-building through a Delphi study offers novel insights for enhancing institutional defences against disinformation in the digital era.

MEDIA LITERACY, MISINFORMATION AND DISINFORMATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA DURING THE 2023 ELECTIONS IN PLATEAU STATE

The social media seems to have increased the velocity of spreading falsehoods and misinformation, being even more influential around electioneering times. This study looks at how low media literacy has worsened the spread of misinformation in the 2023 general elections in Plateau State, Nigeria. Using a mixed methods research design, the study attempts to measure media literacy across different demographics and its effects on voter perception and decision-making using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The outcomes suggest that the low levels of media literacy predispose individuals to manipulation from that misinformation into electoral choices, widening political polarisation and destroying the integrity of democracy. This study identifies the main sources and channels for the spread of misinformation across social media sites, political campaigning, and some traditional media. This study focuses on the furtherance of false narratives and the curtailment of critical engagement with factual information through algorithmic content, echo chambers, and cognitive biases. The study suggests targeted media literacy campaigns informing voters how to identify credible sources, policy regulations on disinformation spread, and technological approaches such as AI fact-checking systems to identify and flag misleading content as possible ways out of the problem. Enhancing partnership between government agencies, civil society organizations, and digital platforms was noted as a significant step toward combating misinformation and creating an informed electorate. This study provides an overview to the general subject of information disorder and emphasizes the urgent need to make media literacy an anchor against manipulative activities of the opinion in any democratic process.

Literate and Critical? Characterizing Users of Alternative Scientific Media

Science is of crucial importance in contemporary societies. Concurrently, legacy news media outlets are losing their position as the main fora for discussing and providing information on science and politics. In the hybrid media system, a broader range of news media have emerged. Among them are alternative news media, which position themselves as corrective voices to “mainstream” news media—including when it comes to reporting on science. In this context, our focus is on individuals who come into contact with science-related information via alternative news media. We draw on the “Science Barometer Switzerland,” a nationally representative online survey of attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge about science and research in Switzerland conducted in 2022 ( n = 1,122), to investigate science- and media-related predictors of the use of alternative news media to access information about science. Our results indicate that the clear majority—more than two-thirds—of the Swiss population do not use alternative news media as sources of science-related information. Respondents who do use alternative news media were more confident about their scientific and media literacy and viewed themselves as information elites who are highly skeptical of established societal elites. However, they do not seem to reject the scientific system in principle.

The Role of Media Literacy in Shaping Public Opinion and Promoting Critical Thinking Regarding Economic Issues

This study looks at how well people understand economic news on social media and form opinions about economic issues based on their media literacy. The research explores if media literacy helps social media users make better business decisions and prevents the spread of fake economic information. The study involves mostly young female participants. Results show that many trust social media for economic information, engage in economic discussions, and actively seek such information daily. Confidence in analyzing economic news varies. People see media literacy as crucial for understanding complex economic concepts. Future research could focus on how well media literacy programs work and how new technologies influence economic discussions on social media.

Artificial Intelligence on Guard Against the Harmful Effects of Deepfakes

<p><strong><em>The purpose of the study </em></strong><em>is to outline the threats posed by modern technologies for creating deepfakes, to confirm the need for legal regulation of their spreading, and to make relatable proposals for recognizing deepfakes at the everyday level, in particular through the use of artificial intelligence.</em></p><p><strong><em>Research methodology.</em></strong><em> The materials used to prepare this article were compiled using a combination of theoretical and empirical methods, including the analysis of sources that offer information about the role of deepfakes in the media environment and their impact on society as a whole. The analysis of foreign websites with legislative acts made it possible to systematize these sources on the relevant issues, as well as to strengthen the argument for the need to legally regulate the dissemination of such falsifications. The use of these methods, as well as the inductive generalization of the field under study, contributed to the structuring of the necessary material to obtain the relational basis for recognizing deep audiovisual counterfeits.</em></p><p><strong><em>Results</em></strong><em>. A list of rules that can be used to recognize deepfakes is proposed, and a list of online resources for their detection is reviewed and systematized in order to increase the overall level of media literacy and awareness of threats that negatively affect the mental health of society. </em></p><p><strong><em>Novelty.</em></strong><em> As a result of the analysis of the sources, as well as their systematization and generalization, recommendations for strengthening critical thinking among the population are proposed, and the need for visual training is emphasized in order not to be deceived by another example of a deep audiovisual fake.</em></p><p><strong><em>Practical significance.</em></strong><em> The proposed rules can be used both for widespread use in society to develop critical thinking and for the development of a set of competencies and programmatic outcomes in media education disciplines. </em></p><p><strong><em>Key words:</em></strong><em> deepfake, disinformation, manipulation, media addiction, media literacy, artificial intelligence.</em></p>

Exploring Trends in New Media Literacy (NML) Field: A Bibliometric Analysis Using Bibliometrix R‑Tool

In the context of rapidly evolving digital technologies, the dissemination of information in new media is accompanied by a number of challenges, including the proliferation of disinformation, fake news, and information pollution. Notwithstanding the growing importance of new media literacy (NML), its integration into educational programs and public policies remains insufficient. Moreover, research often focuses on narrow aspects or specific audiences, which limits the understanding of NML’s societal impact. The objective of this study is to conduct a bibliometric analysis of extant research on new media literacy with a view to identifying key trends, research gaps and priority directions. A review of 217 publications from the Scopus database revealed that the primary research topics include the use of new media, social media, combating fake news, and fostering participatory culture. A geographic analysis identified the United States, Türkiye, and China as the countries with the most research output in this field. The study highlights the need for more in-depth educational programs, greater awareness among diverse social groups, and the use of interactive technologies to develop critical thinking skills. The findings are intended for researchers in media literacy, educators, policymakers, and program developers interested in advancing NML and integrating it into societal and educational practices.

General mental health and new media literacy among Malaysian adult urbanites

<span>This study investigates the multifaceted interplay of risk and protective factors influencing general mental health (GMH), focusing on the impact of external validation seeking through online interactions and the protective role of perceived social support (PSS) against GMH problems, mediated by unconditional self-acceptance (USA) and PSS with new media literacy (NML) is introduced as a moderator variable, affecting the interplay between PSS, USA, and interpersonal mattering (IPM) in predicting GMH. A moderated serial mediation model was proposed and tested with 380 purposively recruited adult urbanites from Malaysia. The results reveal that individuals with high NML perceive greater social support, leading to higher self-acceptance and mattering, enhanced GMH protection. This study highlights the critical role of NML in the digital age’s impact on GMH.</span>

Z세대 간호대학생의 미디어리터러시, 자기주장 행동, 수평적 개인주의 성향이 대학생활적응에 미치는 영향

This study was conducted to provide basic data that can improve the college life adaptation of Generation Z nursing students by confirming the effects of media literacy, assertive behavior, and horizontal individualism on college life adaptation of Generation Z nursing students. Data were collected from June to July 2024 from 155 nursing students in City C, and data from 148 people were ultimately used for analysis. The data collected using the media literacy tool, assertive behavior tool, horizontal individualism tool, and college life adaptation scale questionnaire were analyzed using the SPSS WIN 28.0 Program, descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The research results showed that the factors affecting the college life adaptation of Generation Z nursing students were media literacy (β=.26, ρ=.004), horizontal individualism (β=.22, ρ=.004), and aptitude for admission rather than degree acquisition (β=.20, ρ=.036), in that order. Among the motives for admission, employment (β=.14, ρ=.200), assertive behavior (β=.09, ρ=.260), and religion (β=.14, ρ=.063) did not have a significant effect. Therefore, this study suggests that in order to improve the college life adaptation of Generation Z nursing students, it is necessary to develop a program for active use of media literacy, horizontal individualism, and aptitude for admission.

A Comparative Analysis of WhatsApp Journalism and Conventional Electronic Media in India

This study compares the functions of traditional electronic media and WhatsApp journalism in India with regard to news generation, public involvement, and information distribution. The traditional dominance of radio and television has been challenged by WhatsApp, which has become a key venue for news dissemination because to the increasing prevalence of smartphones and internet access. In contrast to the well-established methods of traditional electronic media, this study examines the advantages and disadvantages of WhatsApp journalism. It looks into how these platforms affect public opinion formation, information believability, and journalistic ethics. This research evaluates the relative efficacy of case studies, content analysis, and user surveys in providing fast, accurate, and responsible information. The results show how news consumption in India is changing, highlighting the need for critical media literacy and regulatory frameworks that take into account both the long-standing advantages and versatility of traditional electronic media as well as the particular difficulties presented by digital platforms like WhatsApp.

Behind the Adolescent Filter: Unveiling the Connection Between Digital Body Image Edition, Satisfaction and Well-Being

ABSTRACT Behind the adolescent filter lies a complex relationship between digital tools used to alter appearance and their impact on body satisfaction and well-being. This study quantitatively examined the association between these factors in 1,082 Spanish adolescents aged 12 to 17, focusing on gender and age differences. Non-parametric tests revealed significant gender disparities, with girls using filters more frequently to modify facial features and body shape. Older adolescents (15–17 years) also had higher filter usage than younger participants. Correlational analyses revealed weak but significant negative links between frequent filter use and overall body satisfaction. Regression analyses indicated that modifying facial features with filters was associated with lower satisfaction, whereas modifying body shape had mixed effects, sometimes improving satisfaction. These findings highlight the dual role of filters as both a tool for self-expression and potential driver of body image distortions. The nuanced impact of filters calls for innovative interventions that not only foster media literacy but also encourage adolescents to critically engage with digital representations of the self, fostering resilience against distorted body ideals.

Statement of Retraction: A Quasi Experiment on the Effectiveness of Social Media Literacy Skills Training for Combating Fake News Proliferation

Statement of Retraction: A Quasi Experiment on the Effectiveness of Social Media Literacy Skills Training for Combating Fake News Proliferation

Adapting the generic conspiracist beliefs scale into Turkish and its relationship between critical thinking, information literacy, and media literacy in prospective teachers: a mixed study

Abstract Conspiracy theories have gained increasing attention in recent years, particularly in education, as they influence individuals’ decision-making and attitudes. To address this issue, we aim to adapt the Generic Conspiracist Beliefs Scale (GCBS) into Turkish and explore its relationship with critical thinking, information literacy, and media literacy among prospective teachers in Türkiye. In the first phase, we validated the Turkish version of the GCBS by administering it to a sample of 637 adults. After the validation, we employed a mixed-methods explanatory sequential design to gain a deeper understanding of the relationships between these constructs. In the quantitative phase, we administered the GCBS, along with scales measuring critical thinking, information literacy, and media literacy, to 406 prospective teachers. The findings revealed a low-level positive but significant relationship between conspiracy beliefs and self-reported critical thinking scores. However, we found no significant relationship between conspiracy beliefs and the objective critical thinking test. Additionally, we identified a low-level positive correlation between conspiracy beliefs and literacy skills (both information and media literacy), suggesting that individuals with stronger conspiracy beliefs may also have slightly higher literacy skills, though the relationship remains weak. In the qualitative phase, we conducted focus group discussions with 12 volunteer participants selected from the top 25% of the sample based on their critical thinking and conspiracy belief scores. Focus group discussions revealed that prospective teachers with tendencies toward believing conspiracy theories had distorted perceptions of critical thinking and literacy skills, despite identifying as critical thinkers. Their interest in conspiracy theories generally stemmed from epistemic curiosity. Also, they indicated that they may struggle to maintain neutrality in educational settings, often reinforcing conspiratorial thinking outside class. This mindset may blur the line between fact and belief, undermining the credibility of the educational environment.

Philosophical and Pedagogical Foundations of Media Literacy in the Modern Information Society

This article explores the philosophical and pedagogical foundations of media literacy in the modern information society. It analyzes key methods for fostering critical thinking and the role of philosophy in shaping value orientations. The study highlights how media literacy influences public consciousness, enabling individuals to critically assess information and resist manipulation. Special attention is given to educational strategies, including interactive teaching methods, project-based learning, and digital literacy training. The philosophical dimensions of media literacy, such as phenomenology, hermeneutics, and ethical considerations, are examined to provide a deeper understanding of information perception. Challenges such as misinformation, algorithmic filtering, and digital inequality are discussed, emphasizing the need for comprehensive educational initiatives. The findings suggest that integrating media literacy into education fosters responsible information consumption and enhances societal resilience against digital-age challenges. Strengthening philosophical and pedagogical approaches is essential for developing media literacy as a crucial skill in contemporary society.

“Disinformation Aims to Mislead; Misinformation Thrives in Ignorance”: Insights from Experts and Non-Experts in Greek-Speaking Cyprus

The article herein examines the multifaceted challenges of misinformation and disinformation in the media landscape, with a focus on strategies to enhance media literacy among adults. The primary objective of this study is to examine the prevalence, characteristics, and impact of disinformation and misinformation in media within the internet society, ultimately contributing to developing targeted educational programs and policy recommendations. To achieve this, a qualitative research design was carried out to explore the views and the broader societal experiences in media-related challenges. The research design utilized thematic analysis of data collected from focus groups and expert interviews, ensuring the representation of diverse perspectives. By focusing on the information landscape in Cyprus and Greece, the present article aims to address the unique local challenges and contribute to the literature gap. The findings reveal the critical importance of tailored educational programs and the cultivation of critical thinking skills in fostering media literacy and combating false information in an effort to put together in a unique study the various experiences, opinions, and needs of individuals who seek to navigate successfully in an information-rich world.

A geo-cultural approach to African media literacy: Introducing the geo-cultural media literacy spectrum

ABSTRACT This paper argues that the coloniality of global knowledge has centralized the Global North to the media literacy debate, leaving some non-western countries to abandon their own experience while mimicking western theory and practice. This paper highlights three major historical events that exemplify the westernization of media literacy and calls for geo-culturalism in its conceptualization to accommodate locations like East Africa whose digital media practice is rooted in their colonial past. Using field data from three East African countries, the paper argues that the geo-cultural approach can help decolonize the debate by accounting for the media literacy variations brought in by varying social-political experiences.

Enhancing Text Message Support With Media Literacy and Financial Incentives for Vaping Cessation in Young Adults: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

The persistent high prevalence of e-cigarette use among young adults remains a significant public health concern, with limited evidence and guidance on effective vaping cessation programs targeting this population. This study aims to outline the study design and protocol of a pilot randomized controlled trial aimed at investigating feasibility and assessing whether media literacy education or financial incentives enhance the effectiveness of evidence-based text message support in promoting vaping abstinence among young adult e-cigarette users. The pilot study uses a 4-arm (1:1:1:1) randomized controlled trial design to assess the potential impact of different combinations of media literacy education, financial incentives, and text message support on vaping abstinence over a 3-month period. The first month serves as a preparatory phase for quitting, followed by 2 months focused on abstinence. A total of 80 individuals, aged 19-29 years, who have used e-cigarettes within the past 30 days, have internet access, and express interest in quitting vaping within the next 30 days, will be enrolled. Eligible individuals will be randomized into one of the four study groups: (1) Text Message, (2) Media Literacy, (3) Financial Incentive, and (4) Combined. All participants, regardless of group assignment, will receive text message support. Participants will be followed for 12 weeks, with abstinence status assessed at week 12, as well as during remote check-ins at weeks 6, 8, and 10. Feasibility measures include recruitment rate, reach, engagement, and retention. Other outcomes of interest include self-reported 7-day abstinence and changes in nicotine dependence and media literacy scores. Exit interviews will be conducted with those who complete the study to explore facilitators of and barriers to participation and engagement in vaping cessation, which will inform future program refinement and uptake. Recruitment for the study commenced in December 2023 and concluded in August 2024. A total of 40 participants were randomized into these groups: 9 for Text Message, 11 for Media Literacy, 10 for Financial Incentive, and 10 for the Combined group. The final assessment was completed in November 2024, and analyses are currently ongoing. The findings from this trial could provide valuable insights into the design and uptake of vaping cessation strategies among the young adult population. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05586308; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05586308. DERR1-10.2196/60527.