In a world where we are constantly surrounded by media, media literacy is not just helpful, but an essential skill. The first step to evaluating media that you are consuming is to investigate its integrity, independence and productivity. Going beyond these initial observations is much more challenging and time consuming, but essential to understanding the sources and intentions of the messages put forth by various platforms. It requires the ability to critically think and have an eye for intricacy.
To judge media in an informed manner, begin by questioning everything you read, see or hear to some extent and follow up on those questions by fact-checking and verifying the sources that are used. Research or evidence incorporated to back information up is most trustworthy when it is peer reviewed or contributed to by multiple perspectives. Be mindful of any biases, sensationalism, or manipulation techniques that might distort the truth, and consider the context and intent of the message. Does it inform, persuade, entertain, or cause a reaction. The target audience and the medium itself should also be considered, as different forms of media have their own unique conventions, intentions and limitations.
Media ownership plays a significant role in shaping the messages we encounter. When a few conglomerates control a most of the media organizations within the United States, it has the potential to limit the diversity of perspectives being taken into consideration and lead to a homogenization of content. “Most journalists in the United States are concerned about the future of press freedoms in the country,” Pew Research said. It is important to be aware of this influence and seek out independent and alternative sources to gain a more balanced understanding of various topics.
Independence is a crucial aspect to examine in media. Investigate the ownership and affiliations of the media outlet or platform presenting the respective content. Consider whether they have any potential conflicts of interest that could influence their reporting or editorial decisions. Independent media outlets are often more likely to provide a wide array of perspectives and unbiased information since they have much less corporate ulterior motives.
How productive a source of media is speaks to its ability to positively contribute to public discourse and society as a whole. Media that encourages critical thinking, fosters empathy, and promotes civic engagement show by their actions they are dedicated to the positive evolution of human beings. Media content that educates, inspires, or sparks meaningful conversations can improve our understanding of facets of existence that may not have been accessible in the past and help us become more active in our communities.
Through such practices we can combat online hate and cultivate a culture of digital connections and empathy. Teaching media literacy in schools from a young age and offering education on the subject within communities can empower individuals to critically assess the messages they are receiving through media and respond to hateful content in a way that is productive and responsible. Highlighting stories of resilience and unity can serve as powerful counter-narratives against online hate.
The role of journalists within the complicated world of media is to produce credible, intentional and useful content. As producers of media, we must be at the forefront of media literacy education. Most people are too busy in this insane world to deal with being bombarded by the tsunami of information and messages that are created and shared every single day. As journalists living in an online multimedia age we must do our best to present the truth and help people to understand and know about information that they would not have had access to before the online world existed.
Not only journalists have the power to increase transparency and integrity within media. This is something that every single person and participate in and contribute to. “We will focus on Truth, Privacy and Power to work towards solutions for a healthy and robust media ecosystem,” Harvard University said. Harvard itself offers resources for better understanding media ownership and the benefits of media literacy, as well as so many other resources. The information to better consume information, as silly as that may sound, is accessible and often well intentioned. Take advantage of such resources so that you are not deceived and let astray by the media organizations that have motives that do not focus on honesty and the betterment of society.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concentration_of_media_ownership
https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/futureofmedia/index-us-mainstream-media-ownership
Ruby Cayenne 