Media Literacy Research Articles

A mixed methods examination of a text message-based mHealth media literacy intervention for U.S. college students amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Objective: During the COVID-19 pandemic, college students were navigating confusing and often conflicting information on social media. Media literacy can help people interpret information online. We developed and tested a text-message media literacy intervention designed for college students. Participants: 267 U.S. college students from a university in the Pacific Northwest. Methods: We used an explanatory mixed methods design with a pretest-posttest field experiment (N = 267) and in-depth interviews (N = 15) to test a text message-based media literacy intervention in April 2020. Results: The intervention influenced media literacy for source and interacted with elaboration to influence media literacy for content and COVID-19 expectancies. Interviews highlighted how media literacy can be bolstered by emphasizing the salience of the role the message source plays in message interpretation. Conclusions: A media literacy text message intervention can prompt college students to consider media literacy related to the source and impact health expectancies.

An Analysis of the Dilemma of Developing Media Literacy Education in China

Though media literacy education appeared as an independent discipline in some developed countries in the 20th century, it has only just begun in China in the 21st century. Nowadays, with the advancement of the Internet and science and technology, media literacy education has emerged as a prominent issue of global concern. As such, the rapid economic and scientific development of China, the largest developing country, has led to increasing demands for media literacy. Therefore, the paper presents an analysis of pertinent studies on efficacious media literacy education programs in developed countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, and compares the current situation of media literacy education in China in terms of educational policies, schools, and social practices. In addition, it also points out the dilemmas facing the development of media literacy education in China, including the rapid updating of technology and platforms, the lack of selection and evaluation of media content, social inequality, and the digital divide. China should actively learn from the international advanced cases of media literacy education, so as to make Chinas media education better adapt to the information age of the 21st century, strive to solve the current media problems as soon as possible, and explore a localized road of media literacy education.

An integrative systematic review on interventions to improve layperson's ability to identify trustworthy digital health information.

Health information on the Internet has a ubiquitous influence on health consumers' behaviour. Searching and evaluating online health information poses a real challenge for many health consumers. To our knowledge, our systematic review paper is the first to explore the interventions targeting lay people to improve their e-health literacy skills. Our paper aims to explore interventions to improve laypeople ability to identify trustworthy online health information. The search was conducted on Ovid Medline, Embase, Cochrane database, Academic Search Complete, and APA psych info. Publications were selected by screening title, abstract, and full text, then manual review of reference lists of selected publications. Data was extracted from eligible studies on an excel sheet about the types of interventions, the outcomes of the interventions and whether they are effective, and the barriers and facilitators for using the interventions by consumers. A mixed-methods appraisal tool was used to appraise evidence from quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies. Whittemore and Knafl's integrative review approach was used as a guidance for narrative synthesis. The total number of included studies is twelve. Media literacy interventions are the most common type of interventions. Few studies measured the effect of the interventions on patient health outcomes. All the procedural and navigation/ evaluation skills-building interventions are significantly effective. Computer/internet illiteracy and the absence of guidance/facilitators are significant barriers to web-based intervention use. Few interventions are distinguished by its implementation in a context tailored to consumers, using a human-centred design approach, and delivery through multiple health stakeholders' partnership. There is potential for further research to understand how to improve consumers health information use focusing on collaborative learning, using human-centred approaches, and addressing the social determinants of health.

COUNTERING DISINFORMATION POLICY: CHALLENGES FOR UKRAINE’S NATIONAL SECURITY

he article examines the problems of combating disinformation in the conditions of a modern full-scale war and overcoming the challenges facing the national security of Ukraine. The concept of disinformation, its impact on public consciousness and the key mechanisms of the spread of false information are outlined. The main directions of the policy of combating disinformation aimed at ensuring information security and resistance to information attacks have been studied. The importance of the development of media literacy among the population as one of the main tools for countering disinformation campaigns through educational programs and social interaction is revealed. The experience of combating disinformation in the developed countries of the world, the USA and the countries of the European Union, is analyzed. The role of state and international initiatives, the cooperation of governments with technology companies, as well as the implementation of legislative mechanisms are highlighted. The main tools aimed at regulating the spread of false information in the information space are revealed. The study emphasizes the importance of active cooperation with international partners to ensure an effective fight against disinformation at the global level. Special attention is paid to the role of international organizations in the formation of a unified strategy for countering disinformation attacks. Prospects for attracting international support for the development of national information protection systems and Ukraine's participation in global information security initiatives are being considered. Proposed means of an effective policy of combating disinformation, which combine legislative, technical and educational measures. The methods of ensuring resistance to external information threats are characterized. Particular attention is paid to media literacy programs, which have become important elements of national strategies in the fight against fakes and disinformation attacks. The article considers the possibilities of implementing international experience in Ukraine with the aim of strengthening national information security. The expediency of developing complex programs, including the strengthening of modern means of monitoring the information space and raising the level of critical thinking among the population, is analyzed. Emphasis is placed on the need to create a national security strategy for combating disinformation, which will allow effective response to new threats and ensure information security in the conditions of modern warfare.

Methodology of Strengthening Students’ Media Literacy

In today’s digital age, media literacy has become an essential skill for students. The rise of social media, fake news, and information overload necessitates that students critically evaluate and understand media messages. Media literacy involves the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and communicate using various forms of media. It is not merely about learning to use digital tools, but about understanding how media influences perceptions and behavior. The growing role of media in shaping political, social, and cultural realities makes it essential to adopt methodologies that strengthen students' media literacy skills. This article explores key methodologies that educators can implement to enhance media literacy in students.

Literasi Media pada Generasi Z di Era Digital

The aim of this research is to determine the media literacy of generation Z in the digital era among pupils and students at SMK Negeri 7 Medan class XI MPLB 1 through a questionnaire and distributed using Google Form. The results of this research reveal that the majority of Generation Z (82.1%) said they like literacy and 92.9% of Generation Z said that using social media for literacy has positive and negative influences, and some of them spent less than 1 hour on it. literacy in social media.

The Effectiveness of an Educational Intervention on Countering Disinformation Moderated by Intellectual Humility

<span lang="EN-US">There is an ongoing debate among scholars on how to tackle disinformation. Media education initiatives to increase literacy are effective ways to counter disinformation. Hence, the European Commission (2022) published <em>Guidelines for Teachers and Educators on Tackling Disinformation and Promoting Digital Literacy Through Education and Training</em>. The present research looked at the role of social media literacy in increasing awareness of the role of social media in spreading disinformation. We developed an educational intervention based on the European Commission guidelines. We investigated its impact on perceived social media literacy, the intention to share fake news on social media, and general conspiracy beliefs. We conducted a within-subject (two times measurement: before the educational intervention and one week after) +1 experiment with <em>N</em> = 127 young adults (aged 18 to 23). After filling in an initial survey, the experimental group received a 15-minute educational intervention on the role of social media for disinformation dissemination in complex digital information environments. One week later, all participants completed the second survey to assess perceived social media literacy and general conspiracy beliefs. In both surveys, participants saw three Instagram posts from a fictitious media outlet to express potential intentions to share on social media. Among the three posts, two showed false information. Findings showed that educational intervention produces a significant increase in perceived social media literacy and a decrease in general conspiracy beliefs. Intellectual humility moderates the impact of educational intervention on algorithmic awareness.</span>

Acceptability and Fidelity of a Media Literacy Education-Based, Comprehensive Sexual Health Program for College Students: A Multi-Method Student-Centered Evaluation

The present study compares the feasibility and acceptability of two asynchronous, interactive, 2-3-hour, online interventions: Media Aware, which is a comprehensive sex education program, taught from a media literacy perspective and Health Aware, which is a comprehensive sex education program containing identical sexual health content, but no media literacy content. Among n = 649 community college students, both programs were equivalently high in program fidelity (88% completed all lessons) and acceptability (average 90% positive ratings). Qualitative analyses revealed that both programs were informative and usable, with few criticisms besides program length. Results suggest, both programs represent promising approaches to sex education for college students.

The Impact of Short Video Platforms on the Media Literacy of Young People

The Impact of Short Video Platforms on the Media Literacy of Young People

“Leaving no one behind”: digital empathy and inclusive media literacy education for young adults on the autism spectrum

The paper advocates for the necessity of inclusive media literacy education (MLE) and equal opportunities for young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which is in alignment with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) 2008 and the Sustainable Development Goal 4 Quality Education (SDG, 2030). It underscores the commitment to ‘leaving no one behind’, a core tenet of the SDGs, by focusing on developing digital empathy and inclusive MLE for young adults with ASD in the digital age. The study aims to empower young adults with ASD in Chennai, India, with media literacy and digital empathy through a one-day hands-on workshop and to assess the impact of this educational intervention on their understanding and application of media literacy in their daily lives. The paper employs a mixed-method approach that integrates experimental-qualitative research and the data is analysed using ‘qualitative reflexive’ thematic analysis. The study’s findings demonstrate significant improvements in the participants’ abilities to discern fake news, learn digital empathy and cybersecurity by engaging responsibly with digital media, and include MLE in their academic curriculum. The paper suggests that such educational interventions can enhance digital empathy and media literacy among young adults with ASD.

The Silent Saboteur: The Impact and Management of Malicious Word-Of-Mouth in The Digital Age

In the digital era, the impact of malicious word-of-mouth on individuals and businesses is complex. Malicious online reviews and false information can spread quickly, causing serious damage to personal reputation and corporate branding. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the effects of malicious word-of-mouth on various aspects of the economy and society, and proposes effective strategies for response. Through specific case studies, such as the controversy surrounding the BOY LONDON brand, the public relations crisis of the Wahaha brand, the damage to Jiang Ping's personal image, and the "pink-haired girl" incident, this article illustrates how malicious word-of-mouth can erode consumer decision-making autonomy, pose threats to personal physical and mental health, and tarnish the image of brands and enterprises. To address these challenges, companies and governments must take proactive measures, such as monitoring and responding to negative information on the Internet to maintain a positive image and strengthening Internet regulation to ensure the authenticity and transparency of information and to prevent the spread of false information. At the same time, improving public media literacy helps people identify and resist the influence of malicious word-of-mouth.

Dear Mixed People: Critically Examining Monoracism in College-Related TV Series

Multiracial youth are one of the fastest-growing demographics in the United States. What messages might these multiracial young people be receiving about multiraciality in college-related television series? Applying Critical Race Media Literacy and Critical Multiracial Theory (MultiCrit), this study examines representations of multiracial students in Charmed, Dear White People, Ginny & Georgia, Grown-ish, and Black-ish. We find that multiracial college student characters are routinely confronted with “box-checking” on demographic forms and wrestle with the limitations of racial categories to capture complexity and the potential resources/benefits associated with selecting specific boxes. Further, multiracial college student characters question their belonging within monoracial student organizations and interracial relationships. Implications for practice and pedagogy are outlined to better leverage television depictions of multiracial college students toward disrupting rather than reinforcing monoracism in higher education contexts.

Social Media Usage and Social Capital as Determinants of Oil Palm Integration Practices Among Smallholders in East Malaysia

Social media plays an increasingly important role in expanding social networks, which may influence the development of social capital among rural communities. This study investigates the relationship between social capital, social media usage, and the adoption of integration practices among oil palm smallholders in East Malaysia. A survey of 194 smallholders revealed that those with higher education levels had significantly higher bonding social capital (p < 0.05). Additionally, smallholders who had used WhatsApp for five years or more exhibited significantly higher levels of both bonding and bridging social capital (p < 0.05). The study found a significant association between bridging social capital and integration practices, particularly non-agricultural activities, but no significant link with bonding social capital. Logistic regression showed that smallholders with higher bridging social capital were more likely to engage in non-agricultural integration practices (OR = 5.64, 95% CI = 2.30–13.83, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that targeted efforts to enhance social media literacy could strengthen social capital and diversify the economic activities of smallholders. Expanding future research to cover a broader geographical area with varying internet accessibility is recommended.

Combat Fake News Sharing on Social Media: A Rational Choice and Social Media Literacy Perspective

Combat Fake News Sharing on Social Media: A Rational Choice and Social Media Literacy Perspective

Integrating Digital Authentic Materials in ESP Classrooms: Effects on Kazakh Students’ Language Proficiency and Student Engagement

The primary aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of selected task-design strategies for integrating digital authentic materials into ESP instruction. It mainly focuses on how teachers navigated this alternative learning environment and the challenges they experienced. A mixed-methods approach was employed, gathering quantitative data through standardized tests and qualitative data through interviews and classroom observations. The study involved thirty-five language instructors from the English language departments of two leading Kazakh universities. The results revealed that critical media literacy instruction to use authentic materials in language learning significantly enhances language proficiency and engagement and effectively equips students with the necessary skills to navigate and assess the digital information landscape. These findings underscore the potential of digital authentic materials in language instruction, paving the way for a promising future in language education. The research highlights the importance of integrating digital literacy into the curriculum to prepare students for the demands of the digital age. The research findings provide vital insights for policymakers and stakeholders to deliberate on effective professional development programs. These programs can assist educators in addressing challenges and acquiring essential content knowledge, pedagogical expertise, and technological competence.

Understanding Cultural Shock Through Media Literacy Anti-hoax Efforts Among Santri in Pondok Pesantren

This research aims to explore the impact of cultural shock experienced by Santri while interacting with social media in the Pondok Pesantren environment to understand the crucial implications of media literacy in countering hoaxes. The underlying theoretical framework for this study encompasses cultural shock theory and the concept of media literacy. The research methodology employed is the content analysis approach, which will delve into cultural shock experiences among Santri, identify common themes of hoaxes, and assess their impact on the Santri community. The findings of this research reveal that Santri are becoming increasingly aware of how cultural shock influences their level of media literacy, as well as the mechanisms of hoax dissemination. Furthermore, the Santri develop media literacy strategies to combat hoaxes and strive to find solutions to mitigate the negative consequences resulting from the challenges of filtering information acquired through social media. Keywords: cultural shock, media literacy, hoax, Santri

“It’s not your fault!”: Aging and the dilemmas of literacy in a digital world

“It’s not your fault!”: Aging and the dilemmas of literacy in a digital world As the world becomes increasingly digitally focused, Kim Sawchuk, Director of engAGE: Centre for Research on Aging, Concordia University, examines what this shift means for older adults trying to navigate media literacy. In an increasingly digital world, media literacy has become a critical life skill. Yet, having the skills to engage in this world can be challenging. In a recent workshop on navigating digital ecosystems, older participants spoke eloquently of the joys, frustrations, and threats they encountered in their daily digital lives. They recounted the difficulties they face in acquiring and maintaining the knowledge and skills needed to access this digital world safely and securely in media systems that are changing at a rapid pace.

Exploring Current Challenges and Opportunities in Media Literacy Skills for Youth: Stakeholders’ Perspectives

The widespread dissemination of contradictory information through various media platforms can increase anxiety and confusion among younger generations. This highlights the need to promote Media Literacy (ML) skills, enabling them to evaluate online information's validity critically. Video game-based learning can be valuable in this context, fostering active learning and critical thinking. Therefore, developing and sharing innovative resources like interactive content and video games is crucial to enhancing young people's ML skills and resilience to disinformation. The YO-MEDIA project, involving three universities in Italy, Portugal, and Spain and a journalist association, aims to develop ML in young people during times of crisis (e.g., pandemics and wars) through game-based learning strategies and professional training. The project carried out 29 semi-structured interviews in the partner countries with various stakeholders to understand perspectives on media design practices and ML formulation for young people in crises. These interviews aimed to collect education and media professionals' insights on promoting ML and critical thinking among youth during crises. It also seeks to gather best practices and understand these professionals' challenges when fostering ML among youth. This study's findings suggest that the interviewees deem ML vital for distinguishing accurate information from misinformation during crises, especially relevant for young individuals. Essential skills for these young people include critical thinking, filtering information, and recognizing online threats. Effective strategies involve operating within digital environments frequented by young people, encouraging critical thinking, and nurturing collaboration. Professionals face challenges such as a lack of training, engaging young people's attention, and keeping pace with digital environments. The interviewees also emphasized the importance of ML training for informal educators and media professionals. They recommended Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) for their flexibility and accessibility. According to the interviewees, an ML game should involve research, interpretation, and decision-making processes and be accessible to young people with disabilities. They identified several ML projects and resources, including multimedia labs, youth parliaments, and critical thinking tools. This study contributes to developing games that promote critical thinking and ML in young people. It also aids in establishing ongoing professional training in ML for informal educators, teachers, media professionals, and other stakeholders.

Older adults and robot literacy

ABSTRACT Robots have acquired roles in the provision of information and services. Older adults may interact with robots in many settings, including their homes and public places and, for example, care settings in or outside their homes. In older adults’ care, robots are used to assist their daily tasks, such as cleaning, eating, dressing, bathing, social interaction, entertainment, and medication taking. Consequently, older adults are required to have robot literacy, which has been suggested as a subset of media literacy. However, up to date, only a few researchers have defined robot literacy. In this conceptual article, we first discuss robots in the everyday lives of older adults. Second, drawing on previous studies on media literacies, digital competences, human-robot interaction and other relevant research fields, we define robot literacy as a multidimensional set of skills comprising the following seven skill dimensions: 1) awareness of robots; 2) interaction with robots; 3) understanding and evaluation of the information provided by robots; 4) understanding the data security and privacy of robots; 5) programming of robots; 6) ethical reflection; and 7) providing and receiving social support. Finally, we discuss the applicability of the concept of robot literacy and the limitations of our definition of the concept.

Measuring Instruments for Media Health Literacy: A Systematic Review of Psychometric Properties.

A systematic review of the scientific literature was performed in 2023. The articles were extracted from the electronic databases "Pubmed", "Web of Science", "Dialnet", and "Scopus". The search languages were limited to English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Twelve articles were selected for further analysis. The described measurement instruments included five original scales and seven cross-cultural adaptations of three of them. Four scales (the Sugar-Sweetened Beverages Media Literacy scale adapted to Turkish and Chinese, along with the Media Health Literacy (MeHLit) scale and its adaptation to the Chinese language) exhibited high quality in the assessment of psychometric properties. These instruments allow for the measurement of an individual's level of skill when consuming specific health information, enabling an analysis to understand the risk they are exposed to. Further research is recommended to strengthen the existing evidence and apply these tools to broader and more diverse populations.