Month: July 2023

What is media literacy?

According to The National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE), media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication. Media includes traditional media (television, radio, newspapers) and digital media (social media, websites, podcasts). Literacy is the ability to read, understand and analyze messages.

Why is it important?

• It enables individuals to distinguish between reliable information and misinformation or fake news.
• It enables individuals to think critically when they evaluate media.
• It enables individuals to make informed decisions about the content they consume and share.
• It enables individuals to recognize the author’s opinions and goals.

Why should you aim for varied views but the factual consensus in your PLN?

Varied views promote open thinking from diverse perspectives. However, factual consensus ensures that the information is accurate and reliable, avoiding the spread of misinformation. Combining both makes the PLN more diversified and more comprehensive.

Open dialogues about media literacy and factual information can create conflict, why does this happen?

Individuals may not accept opposite points because of their beliefs or bias. They believe their factual information and refuse to change change their opinions about the topics. Also, individuals may judge subjectively based on their emotions and feelings.

What is the benefit of having a PLN that values media literacy?

• Information in PLN is accurate and reliable. Individuals consciously avoid the spread of misinformation.
• The abilities of critical thinking and problem-solving are enhanced.
• Diverse perspectives are encouraged, promoting open-mindedness. It enables individuals to keep studying and thinking.

Based on my experience, several social media platforms can be beneficial in education:

Schoology: Schoology is a learning management system that includes course management, material sharing, assessments, and grading. Teachers, students, and parents are able to interact and engage in educational activities in this platform.

Twitter: Educators can follow relevant hashtags and accounts to stay updated on the latest trends, share resources and ideas, and connect with other educators worldwide. Also, they can share their own ideas and resources on their own accounts.

YouTube: YouTube is a popular video platform. Educators create and share their teaching videos, which can be used as lecture videos or extracurricular supplementary content.

WordPress: Educators are able to write blogs to share their ideas and resources. Articles, videos and other forms of learning resources can be included in the blogs.

As my group members said, privacy and respect is important when working with vulnerable individuals:

Privacy: When working with vulnerable individuals, it is crucial to respect their privacy and maintain confidentiality. Before posting any information, photographs, or videos about vulnerable people on social media platforms, obtain informed consent and proper permits. Be cautious while sharing sensitive information or photographs on social networking networks, and follow all applicable privacy laws and regulations.

Respect: Maintain ethical standards in their social media interactions and content sharing. They should always be respect to vulnerable individuals. Be cautious of the possible impact of your postings and comments on vulnerable persons, and make sure your online presence is consistent with professional behavior.

Risks:

Privacy Invasion: Engaging with a public audience may reveal personal information or attract unwanted attention, perhaps leading to privacy violations or harassment, such as online abuse, doxing, or invasion of your personal life.

Misinterpretation and context collapse: Social media platforms can sometimes compound misconceptions since messages can be taken out of context or misconstrued, resulting in unexpected effects. One misstep or controversial statement can be magnified and shared widely, potentially leading to public scrutiny and loss of trust.

Legal Implications: Educators, lawyers, and government officials, for example, may face legal or professional ramifications if their social media activities break ethical norms, confidentiality laws, or workplace policies.

Benefits:

Broad Influence: Engaging with a public audience on social media allows you to reach a wide range of people and have a positive impact on their lives. You can share knowledge, insights, and expertise, influencing public discourse and shaping opinions on important issues.

Building Trust and Credibility: You can develop your personal brand, project a favorable image of yourself, and highlight your skills and principles. You may position yourself as an authority in your industry by maintaining a thoughtful and educational social media presence. Sharing worthwhile material frequently might increase your audience’s and professional colleagues’ perceptions of your credibility.

To address negative replies:

Stay calm and composed: Responding to negativity with anger or defensiveness can escalate the situation. It’s important to maintain a calm and professional tone when addressing negative replies or critiques. Avoid engaging in personal attacks or getting defensive.

Respond respectfully and constructively:  Respond to negative feedback and critiques in a respectful and professional manner, regardless of how provocative or offensive the comments may be. Responding respectfully can help maintain professionalism and potentially defuse tensions. Address negative replies by offering constructive insights or explanations. Use these situations as an opportunity to educate and clarify any misconceptions while maintaining a calm and composed tone.

Know When to Disengage: Not all negative comments warrant a response. If a comment is clearly malicious or lacks substance, it may be best to ignore it rather than engaging in a futile argument.

Social media engages communications by providing platforms for individuals and groups to connect, share information, and interact with each other directly. People are able to engage in real-time conversations, share information, and exchange ideas regardless of distance. Personal Learning Networks can broaden people’s perspectives by the exchange of ideas and other points of view. You can get different viewpoints and experiences through connecting with a variety of individuals. Engaging with a diverse PLN can broaden your understanding, challenge your assumptions, and enhance the quality of your social media interactions.

Benefits:

Exposure to a variety of opinions and experiences broadens your understanding of various cultures, backgrounds, and points of view. 

It increases empathy and a deeper awareness of social concerns, resulting in more inclusive and educated discussions. 

It develops your network and relationships, you may have more options for cooperation, learning, and professional development. 

Understanding where you’re coming from and considering different points of view makes your messaging more compelling and relevant to the audience you’re engaging with.