Critical Media Research Articles

Development and exploration of news media literacy scales in Taiwan

The purpose of the study is to explore how the promotion of news media literacy positively affects media criticism as well as the control and judgment of self-behavior. Potter developed the Chinese News Media Literacy Scale (NMLS), based on his theoretical framework of media literacy cognition. Potter is an outstanding scholar in media literacy. Senior high school students in Taiwan validated the NMLS for reliability and validity. The NMLS consists of 45 questions covering four topics: intellectual skills, personal locus, media knowledge structure, and news context reading. The Chinese version of the NMLS demonstrated good reliability, considerable validity, appropriate discrimination, and an appropriate level of difficulty, making it suitable for Taiwanese students. Female respondents exhibited higher news media literacy than their male counterparts. Public senior high school students showed higher news media literacy compared to those from private schools. The time spent reading news positively correlates with improvements in news media literacy. The findings indicate that news media literacy education significantly enhances students' critical understanding of news and media literacy skills, with varying effects across different genders and types of schools. The limitation of the study is that the sample mainly comes from Taiwan, which may not fully represent other cultural contexts. The findings can guide educational policy in schools, particularly in designing and implementing news media education curricula, taking into account the differences in gender and school types. This research expands the literature on news media literacy, especially in terms of scale development and its application to a specific cultural context like Taiwan, and introduces new insights into the impact of gender and school type on media literacy.

Academic Filmmaking in the New Humanities

The article provides an introduction to the first of a pair of special issues devoted to academic filmmaking, which, apart from this introduction, contains eleven prose articles. The article describes the variety of filmmaking practice in the academy, and some of the venues where examples of the practice are published or exhibited. It gestures at the multiple origins of academic filmmaking with special reference to the tradition of the essay film, and finds a key reflexive moment in Eric S. Faden’s (prose) “Manifesto for Critical Media” (2008), which articulated the challenge of using “image, voice, pacing, text, sound, music, montage, rhythm” to create scholarly audiovisual work. The introduction goes on to set out the aims for the special issues, and to describe the contents of the eleven articles in the first issue and some of the features, concerns or approaches shared between and across those contents. The eleven articles deal with themes raging from academic filmmaking as activism, to vulnerability and embodiment, to the challenges of production and publishing, and of institutional legitimization.

Manufacturing scents: Unveiling the mediated nature of scent-based communication

This article traces the history of commercial attempts to merge olfactory mediated scents with visual media and the ensuing turn toward domestic olfactory mediation. From the earliest attempts at scented cinema to the emergence of consumer-grade odor mediating products as Little Trees and Glade, we conceptualize smell as a neglected site ripe for critical media analysis. We argue that the commercial rise of domestic odor mediating technology, such as air fresheners, facilitate a unique form of nature-based simulation where audiences desire the fake over the real and confuse familiar natural odors.

Academic Filmmaking in the New Humanities. Articles. Introduction to the special issue.

The article provides an introduction to the first of a pair of special issues devoted to academic filmmaking, which, apart from this introduction, contains eleven prose articles. The article describes the variety of filmmaking practice in the academy, and some of the venues where examples of the practice are published or exhibited. It gestures at the multiple origins of academic filmmaking with special reference to the tradition of the essay film, and finds a key reflexive moment in Eric S. Faden’s (prose) “Manifesto for Critical Media” (2008), which articulated the challenge of using “image, voice, pacing, text, sound, music, montage, rhythm” to create scholarly audiovisual work. The introduction goes on to set out the aims for the special issues, and to describe the contents of the eleven articles in the first issue and some of the features, concerns or approaches shared between and across those contents. The eleven articles deal with themes raging from academic filmmaking as activism, to vulnerability and embodiment, to the challenges of production and publishing and of institutional legitimization.

A critical review of the Iranian National Olympic Committee's performance in designing the opening parade costumes: signs of inefficiency and damage to the national identity

This research aims to evaluate and critique the performance of the Iranian National Olympic Committee in designing the costumes for the Olympic opening parade. The study seeks to identify the strengths and weaknesses of these designs and compare them with successful global examples to help improve future designs. A review method was used to achieve this goal. This method involved examining previous research related to the design of Olympic uniforms and the criticisms they received. The analysis included public and media critiques, athlete surveys, and an examination of the characteristics of successful international designs.The findings indicate that Iran's Olympic uniforms have struggled to make a positive impact internationally due to weaknesses in aligning with global standards, a lack of attention to cultural symbols, and inadequate use of modern technologies. Compared to successful global designs, these uniforms have faced challenges in representing national identity and effectively communicating with audiences. The study concludes that to improve future designs, the Iranian National Olympic Committee should focus on enhancing collaboration with cultural and social experts, using international consultants to align with global standards, and establishing continuous evaluation processes to identify and address weaknesses. Additionally, developing specialized teams and providing training for designers are recommended to improve design quality and elevate national prestige on the international stage.

Critical social media and political engagement in authoritarian regimes: the role of state media fairness perceptions

ABSTRACT This study investigates how exposure to critical social media content influences political engagement in authoritarian regimes, focusing on Kazakhstan. Addressing a gap in existing research, this paper examines the moderating role of state media fairness perceptions. Using representative survey data (N = 6,800), the analyses confirm that critical social media exposure is positively linked with political engagement, including state-sanctioned activities like party contact and legislative engagement. However, this effect varies significantly based on individuals’ perceptions of state media fairness. These results suggest that critical content can foster broader political participation and highlight the nuanced role of state media in shaping political behavior in closed states.

Media space and the formation of civil society: the role of information technologies

Introduction: The media space and information technologies are rapidly evolving, influencing the formation of civil society and democratic processes. Objectives: This research aims to analyze modern trends in the interaction between the media space, information technologies, and civil society, focusing on the growth of civic activity and participation in social life. Methods: The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys to assess public trust in media and qualitative analyses of digital media strategies. Results: The findings highlight varying levels of trust among Europeans in media and technological advancements as tools for fostering a democratic society. Key digital media strategies that increase civic engagement were identified. Conclusions: Research concludes that media space and information technologies hold significant potential for strengthening civil society and supporting freedom of speech. A promising direction is the integration of critical thinking and media literacy, especially in the context of increasing geopolitical tensions. The study emphasizes the need for further innovation in mass media, developing adaptive strategies that align with the dynamics of the digital age and contribute to civil society's development.

Pre-service teachers co-constructing narratives about the future of education

ABSTRACT This study examined the kinds of narratives that nine pre-service teachers shared in online collaborative learning discussions about the future of education in relation to global megatrends, namely digitalisation and ecological sustainability. We also analysed how they positioned themselves in the future of education. We used data-driven qualitative analysis and narrative analysis, and we report our findings partly as non-fiction comic strips. We found that the pre-service teachers (1) viewed digitalisation in education through antonyms and ambivalence, (2) emphasised critical media literacy, (3) viewed ecological perspectives through a main and counter-narrative (taking root more deeply vs. not everyone needs to get excited) and (4) emphasised the role of action. In terms of positioning, we found dynamic tensions between passive and active stances. We discuss our findings in light of teacher identity and education for democracy and sustainability. The results can be used as thinking tools in teacher education.

USE OF FILM MEDIA IN INCREASING STUDENTS' UNDERSTANDING IN HISTORY LEARNING AT SMAN 1 MEDAN

This research aims to explore and analyze the use of film media in increasing students' understanding of history at SMA Negeri 1 Medan. The research method used is qualitative with a case study approach. This research involves direct observation, interviews, and document analysis to gain an in-depth understanding of how the film medium is used and its impact on student understanding. Research findings show that the use of film media can increase student engagement in history learning, relive historical context, and facilitate understanding of complex concepts. Apart from that, student interaction with film media also strengthens information retention and motivates learning. The implication of this research is the importance of considering the use of film media as an effective learning tool in the context of history learning in high schools. The importance of developing students' media literacy is also highlighted in this research. Teachers need to provide systematic teaching on how to analyze, evaluate and understand messages conveyed through film media so that students can become intelligent and critical media consumers. Apart from that, collaboration between teachers, students, parents and the community is also important in supporting the use of film media in history learning. By involving all relevant parties, the use of film media can become an integral part of the school curriculum and make a significant contribution to achieving national education goals. Overall, this research confirms that the use of film media is a potential tool for increasing students' understanding of learning history at SMA Negeri 1 Medan. However, its use needs to be integrated with a holistic approach, paying attention to aspects of media literacy, fair representation and collaboration between stakeholders. In this way, a richer, more relevant and meaningful learning experience can be created for students to understand their historical heritage.

Network-Actor Critical Media Literacy and Political Activism in the Era of the Fiscal Oversight Board in Puerto Rico

Network-Actor Critical Media Literacy and Political Activism in the Era of the Fiscal Oversight Board in Puerto Rico

Human Rights Barbie: Using Critical Media Literacy to Teach About Feminism

This article uses critical media literacy to approach themes of sexism and gender inequality depicted in the 2023 film Barbie. Teachers cognizant of the need to address women’s rights issues in American history often struggle to find resources that are accessible and meaningful for their students. Furthermore, the use of film in social studies instruction can be an engaging and culturally relevant way for students to grapple with contentious issues in social studies education. Additionally, by using human rights concepts to frame inequality and inspire advocacy, teachers can address dimensions of oppression and inequality with a more ‘neutral’ or objective framing. Given the current political climate that instills fear in educators who teach about issues of gender, strategic approaches can empower social studies teachers to engage students in examinations of this contentious topic in American schools. Lastly, this article introduces perspectives of Black feminists and international activists to provide intersectional analyses of women’s rights issues to curb the common emphasis on White feminism. The lesson plan offered in this article includes a film viewing guide, enrichment opportunities, and an activity that connects themes in Barbie with women’s rights movements.

The ‘Media Party’

Far-right media networks regularly engage in media criticism to undermine the legitimacy of mainstream news. These media critiques work to challenge the authority and power of mainstream news while establishing far-right media as journalistically superior. While constructive media criticism is necessary within any society, far-right news tends to frame mainstream media as an elitist and exclusionary institution that purposefully spreads misinformation to its users. In Canada, numerous far-right media sites have emerged over the past decade but have been relatively under-examined within the literature. In this context, my paper analyzes the types of critiques Canadian far-right media use to question the legitimacy of mainstream Canadian news. The study uses qualitative analysis to examine 65 articles published by two Canadian far-right media outlets, Rebel News and True North. Guided by previous literature surrounding far-right media critiques, I identify four commonly used critiques that the Canadian far-right media employ; the Media Party position, the Disinformation position, the Citizen/Taxpayer position, and the Expert position. Through my analysis, I argue that Canadian far-right media employs these specific strategies of criticism to present their discourse as authoritative over legacy media in Canada.

DEMOCRATIZING INDIA: THE ROLE OF MEDIA IN POLITICAL ACTIVISM AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

The democratization of media in India has ushered in a dynamic era marked by both challenges and opportunities, particularly in the realms of political activism and youth empowerment. The primary aim of this article is to investigate the impact of media on political activism and the empowerment of youth within the Indian democratic context. It seeks to explore how various media platforms, including digital and social media, contribute to shaping political opinions and facilitating civic engagement among India’s younger population. This article delves into the multifaceted role of media in shaping India's democratic landscape, with a specific focus on its impact on political discourse, citizen engagement, and youth empowerment. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and empirical evidence, the article explores the challenges posed by the spread of misinformation, regulatory constraints, and digital inequalities, while also highlighting the opportunities presented by citizen journalism initiatives, alternative media outlets, and social media platforms. By equipping citizens, especially the youth, with critical media literacy skills and promoting digital citizenship, India can navigate the complexities of media democratization to foster a more inclusive, participatory, and resilient democracy. Through this analysis, the article contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between media, politics, and youth empowerment in the context of India's evolving democratic landscape. The future of Indian democracy will significantly depend on how well the nation manages to harness the potential of media platforms to foster informed political participation while mitigating the risks associated with digital media proliferation. As this article illustrates, nurturing a resilient and inclusive democratic process is contingent upon empowering the youth with the tools to critically engage with media and actively participate in the democratic governance of their country.

The instructional implications of a critical media literacy framework and podcasts in a high school classroom

The instructional implications of a critical media literacy framework and podcasts in a high school classroom

A complete study of neuroendocrine regulation of fish reproduction. 4. Migration impulse as a starting mechanism of spawning

The participation of the hypothalamo-hypophysial neurosecretory system (NS) in the initiation of anadromous fish spawning migration was established on the basis of ecological-histophysiological analysis the results of histomorphological, immunohistochemical and electron microscopic studies for the first time. Activation of the neurosecretory products synthesis in the neurosecretory cells perikaryons and their excretion into the cerebrospinal fluid of the III brain ventricle in anadromous migrants forms at the beginning of the river spawning migration, spring-spawning: Russian sturgeon, stellate sturgeon and autumn-spawning: pink salmon and chum salmon, was shown. Transport and mass accumulation of neurosecretory products in the neurohypophysis were discovered at the same time. It is concluded, that the NS impacts a complex synchronous effect, which consists: firstly, in the neurotropic effect of nonapeptide neurohormones (NPh) on behavioral centers, which causes a dominant state of CNS excitation corresponding to the “Migration impulse”; secondly, in the violation of the long-term adapted marine “Pastured” level of osmoregulation; and thirdly, in the cessation of the well-known antigonadotropic effect of NPh, which contributes the organism transition to the energyconsuming energy type of metabolism. A comparative analysis (cross-analysis) of our own and literature data confirms the commonality and points to the universality of this metabolic mechanism for different forms of migration in fish ontogeny, which allows us to consider it as the most important aromorphosis type of phylogenetic adaptations, aimed at the species biological progress achieving. In the subsequent navigational mechanisms of homing, widely covered in the world literature, the leading role is played by the luliberinergic centers of the hypothalamus. The ecological diversity of these population-level mechanisms and the presence of straing in fish allow us to consider them as specializations of microevolutionary origin. The most promising direction for the further neuroendocrinological research development seems to be the analysis of the mechanisms of imprinting in connection with the enhancement of growth and survival of juveniles in the critical salinity medium, and for the purpose of homing control (development of the commercial fish-return biotechnology management) — the mechanisms of interaction between the NS and the luliberinergic centers in the neuroendocrine complex of CNS.

Breakthrough Underwater Physical Environment Limitations on Optical Information Representations: An Overview and Suggestions

Underwater optics have seen a notable surge of interest in recent years, emerging as a critical medium for conveying information crucial to underwater resource exploration, autonomous underwater vehicle navigation, etc. The intricate dynamics of underwater optical transmission, influenced by factors such as the absorption by the water and scattering by multiple particles, present considerable challenges. One of the most critical issues is that the optical information representation methods fail to take into account the impact of the underwater physical environment. We conducted a comprehensive review and analysis of recent advancements in underwater optical transmission laws and models. We summarized and analyzed relevant research on the effects of underwater particles and turbulence on light and analyzed the polarization effects in various environments. Then, the roles of various types of underwater optical propagation models were analyzed. Although optical models in complex environments are still mostly based on Monte Carlo methods, many underwater optical propagation mechanisms have been revealed and can promote the impacts of optical information expression. We delved into the cutting-edge research findings across three key domains: the enhancement of underwater optical image quality, the 3D reconstruction from monocular images, and the underwater wireless optical communication, examining the pivotal role played by light transmission laws and models in these areas. Drawing upon our extensive experience in underwater optics, including underwater optical sensor development and experiments, we identified and underscored future directions in this field. We advocate for the necessity of further advancements in the comprehension of underwater optical laws and physical models, emphasizing the importance of their expanded application in underwater optical information representations. Deeper exploration into these areas is not only warranted but essential for pushing the boundaries of current underwater optical technologies and unlocking new potential for their application in underwater optical sensor developments, underwater exploration, environmental monitoring, and beyond.

Problem-Based Learning: Media and Information Literacy Project to Combat Misinformation for Future Communicators

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) education can combat online misinformation by enhancing users’ fact-checking skills. This action research study designed and implemented a problem-based learning MIL project for journalism undergraduates. The objectives are (a) to design a MIL project by using a problem-based learning methodology; (b) to implement the MIL project and to assess its effectiveness in improving students’ fact-checking skills; and (c) to identify the challenges and limitations of implementing the project. Analysis shows that the MIL project successfully improved students’ MIL skills, including critical analysis, media production, and personal growth. Despite facing challenges like time constraint and limited generalizability, the study suggests that the MIL project could be replicated in other journalism programs to enhance MIL skills and cultivate critical thinking to fight misinformation.

Millions of climate refugees are coming!’ A critical media discourse analysis on climate change-induced migrants in Flemish press

ABSTRACT The rise in research, policy and news on climate change-induced migration has grown exponentially over the last two decades. Migration related to global warming is increasingly portrayed as inevitable and used to mobilise people to act immediately against climate change. By analysing the discourse of two Flemish news media journals (De Standaard and Het Laatste Nieuws) and the Belgian national news agency (Belga), indexed by the GoPress database (1985–2022), this paper aims to present how migration and climate change are linked to each other in the media, how this differs across media outlets, and reflects on potential outcomes of this framing. Results indicate that climate-induced migration is often portrayed in an apocalyptic way and seen as an inevitable threat that needs to be avoided. The used terminology and the portrayals of climate change-induced migration are not in line with the scientific evidence on this topic.

The Maintenance Model of Restrictive Practices: A Trauma-Informed, Integrated Model to Explain Repeated Use of Restrictive Practices in Mental Health Care Settings

Nurses are at the forefront of care in mental health services but their role is conflicted; they carry the most responsibility for care and also for restrictive practices. The harmful effects of restrictive practices for mental health patients are well documented, have attracted negative media attention, public concern, and criticism directed specifically at nursing staff. The need to reduce restrictive practices has been highlighted by patients, carer groups, legislators, policy makers, academics, and mental health service providers. Policies and best practice guidelines have resulted, but restrictive practices remain a global problem. This theory paper proposes that inertia is partly due to the absence of a coherent model that explains the initiation and maintenance of restrictive practice in inpatient mental health settings. The conceptual development and synthesis of the model and its practical implications are discussed.

“It is universal love beyond homosexuality and gender difference”: critical media discourse analysis of boys’ love dramas in Japan

ABSTRACT Through a critical media discourse analysis of boys’ love (BL) dramas in Japan, this study analyses how cultural works on same-sex romance have been publicised and perceived in the Japanese society. Text was collected from comments from the production team and actors on the official websites of productions, introductions, commentaries, and interviews in the media, and comments from fans on the official websites. Norman Fairclough’s (2003) three-dimensional model was used to examine how discourse practice is contextualised in relation to the wider society and culture. This study shows that the BL category is stigmatised as something to be overcome, and the discourse of “going beyond” is used favourably, making the underlying homophobia and misogyny unquestionable. The study criticises the potential for “universalisation” beyond “transcending” BL and gender, emphasising the importance of the commonality and universal messages as human beings, while bleaching out the unique aspects of experience due to gender and/or sexual orientation. It is essential to critically examine the sociocultural implications of the production and consumption of BL drama, focusing on whether it fosters positive change in society, rather than altering the genre to conform to a notion of “universal love” to appeal to a wider audience.