Topic 1: Introduction to Media and Information Literacy

Lesson 1: Definition of Media

Media refers to the physical objects used to communicate with, or the mass communication through physical objects such as radio, television, computers, film, etc. It also refers to any physical object used to communicate messages.

When people talk about media, they often refer to its journalistic arm: the newspapers, the news reports on television, and more accurately, the news reporters and journalists involved in the production of daily news. However, as a concept, media is vaster and more diverse. 

The term media comes from the word medium which is defined as “channel,” “means,” or “method.” As an avenue or method, media is used to communicate information. This “information” goes beyond what we call news or events that are of public interest.

Examples of media

Different forms of non-electronic print media are used to this day:

• Bulletins and notices

• Newspapers and magazines

• Letters

• Books

• Comics

Different forms of electronic and non-print media include:

• Radio

• Television

• Cinema

• Computers (CD-ROM, USB flash drive)

• Video games

• E-mail

• Audio recordings

• Mobile phones

• E-books

Types of Media: Traditional and Digital

Media is how we share and communicate information, like news, music, and entertainment. There are two main types:

1.    Traditional Media (or Analogue Media):

1. • This is the kind of media people used before computers and the internet became popular.

   • Examples include:

     • Newspapers and books (printed on paper).

     • Radio and TV (broadcast using signals).

     • Letters (handwritten or typed and sent physically).

   • The content in traditional media is stored in physical formats like paper, film, or tape. It takes more time and effort to reproduce or share this kind of media.

2.    Digital Media (or New Media):

2. • This type of media became popular with the rise of computers and the internet, starting around the late 20th century.

   • Examples include:

     • Social media platforms (like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok).

     • Blogs (online articles).

     • Emails (electronic letters).

   • Digital media is stored electronically. You can share it instantly, and the quality doesn’t get worse, no matter how many times you copy it.

Lesson 2: Definition of Information

Information is a broad term that refers to data that has been processed or organized in a way that makes it meaningful and useful. It includes knowledge gained from studying, learning from experience, or being taught. Information can also come from signals or symbols, like traffic signs or instructions. 

Basically, information is the result of interpreting raw data in a way that helps us understand or make decisions.

Lesson 3: Definition of Literacy

Literacy refers to the ability to read, write, understand, and use information in various forms. It’s not just about reading and writing; it also involves interpreting information, creating new ideas, communicating effectively, and even solving problems. 

Being literate means you can understand the information you receive, use it to make decisions, and share your thoughts clearly with others. It is a key skill for success in school, work, and everyday life.

Lesson 4: Definition of Media and Information Literacy

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is a skill that helps you understand and work with information from different types of media, like the internet, TV, radio, newspapers, and social media. It involves four key parts:

1. Access: Knowing how to find information from reliable sources.

2. Analyze: Being able to understand and break down the information you see, hear, or read.

3. Evaluate: Figuring out if the information is true, trustworthy, or useful.

4. Create: Using what you’ve learned to create your own content, whether it's writing, videos, or social media posts.

Lesson 5: Importance of Media and Information Literacy

Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is important because it helps you think critically and make informed decisions about the information you encounter every day.

1.    Helps individuals become critical thinkers: MIL teaches you to question and analyze the information you see, hear, and read. Instead of just accepting everything at face value, you learn to think deeply about the source, accuracy, and purpose of the information. This is especially important today when there is a lot of misinformation and fake news online.

2.    Promotes responsible media consumption and production: MIL also encourages you to use media responsibly. It helps you understand the impact of sharing or creating content, and the responsibility that comes with it. When you know how to choose trustworthy sources and create thoughtful, respectful content, you can be a positive influence online and in your community.

Lesson 6: Definition of Communication

Communication is simply the act of transferring information from one place, person or group to another (SkillsYouNeed, 2020). It is the process of sending and receiving messages through verbal or nonverbal means, including speech, or oral communication; writing and graphical representations (such as infographics, maps, and charts); and signs, signals, and behavior (Nordquist, 2020). At its core, communications is the use of messages to generate meaning, both within and across a myriad of cultures, contexts, channels, and media. 

Through the effective practice of communications, we are able to improve cultural, social, personal, and professional experiences, whether between individual, enterprises or even nations (What is Communications Studies?, 2020).

Lesson 7: The Communication Process

In order to better understand the communication process, we can break it down into a series of eight essential components. These are the eight parts as presented by What is communication (2012):

1. Source/Sender - In communication process, the sender is the source who creates and delivers the message. They convey information not only through words but also through tone, body language, and clothing. This process of transforming thoughts into communication is called encoding.

2. Message - The message is the meaning created by the source for the audience. It includes not only the words chosen but also their organization, tone of voice, body language, appearance, writing style, and formatting. The context or environment and any noise that interferes with communication also contribute to the message.

3. Channel - The channel refers to the medium through which a message is transmitted from the source to the receiver. It can include various forms of communication, such as face-to-face conversations, letters, phone calls, text messages, emails, social media, blogs, radio, TV, and other written or digital platforms.

4. Receiver - The receiver receives and interprets the message from the source, using their senses to understand it. This process, known as decoding, involves analyzing the message in both the intended and unintended ways.

5. Feedback - Feedback is the response the receiver gives to the source, either intentionally or unintentionally. It can be verbal or nonverbal and helps the source understand how well the message was received. Feedback also allows the receiver to ask for clarification, agree, disagree, or suggest improvements.

6. Environment - The environment refers to the physical and psychological setting where messages are sent and received. It includes factors like the room's setup, lighting, sound, and even the formality of dress. The environment affects how communication occurs, such as whether people have intimate conversations in close proximity or choose to text from a distance.

7. Context - The context of communication refers to the setting, situation, and expectations of those involved. For example, a professional setting may involve formal attire, which influences the language and behavior expected from participants.

8. Interference or noise – Interference refers to anything that disrupts or alters the intended meaning of a message. It can include physical noise, like car horns or radio distractions, as well as psychological noise, such as stereotypes or personal biases that affect how a message is received. Other factors, like hunger or uncomfortable environments, can also interfere with communication. While some noise may not always be negative, it can still hinder effective communication.

Lesson 8: Types of nature of communication: Verbal and Non-Verbal

The two types of nature of communication generally refer to how communication can be categorized based on its form and flow.

1. Verbal Communication

• Definition: Communication that uses words, either spoken or written, to share messages and ideas.

• Types:

  • Oral Communication: Speaking, listening, conversations, speeches, phone calls, etc.

  • Written Communication: Letters, emails, books, reports, text messages, etc.

• Characteristics:

  • Relies on language and vocabulary.

  • Can be formal or informal.

  • Requires clarity to ensure the message is understood.

2. Non-Verbal Communication

• Definition: Communication that does not use words but relies on other cues to convey meaning.

• Types:

  • Body Language: Gestures, posture, facial expressions.

  • Visual Communication: Symbols, signs, images, graphs.

  • Tone and Voice: How something is said (e.g., tone, pitch, volume).

• Characteristics:

  • Supports and enhances verbal communication.

  • Can be intentional (a smile to show happiness) or unintentional (crossed arms showing defensiveness).

  • Often reveals emotions and attitudes.

Key Difference:

• Verbal communication uses words to express ideas, while non-verbal communication uses actions, expressions, and visual aids to convey meaning. Both work together to make communication effective!

Lesson 9: Types of communication as a process: One-Way and Two-Way Communication Process

1. One-Way Communication Process

• Definition: A communication process where the sender delivers a message, and the receiver does not provide feedback or respond.

• Examples:

  • Watching TV or listening to the radio.

  • Reading a book, poster, or advertisement.

• Characteristics:

  • Information flows in one direction only, from sender to receiver.

  • No interaction or feedback is involved.

  • Commonly used in mass communication or instructional messages.

Steps in the One-Way Process:

1. Sender: Creates and sends the message.

2. Message: The information being communicated.

3. Channel: The medium or platform used (e.g., TV, radio, poster).

4. Receiver: Passively receives and interprets the message.

2. Two-Way Communication Process

• Definition: A communication process where the sender and receiver exchange messages and feedback, creating an interactive dialogue.

• Examples:

  • Conversations between friends.

  • A teacher answering students' questions in class.

  • Customer service interactions.

• Characteristics:

  • Information flows in both directions.

  • Feedback helps clarify or confirm understanding.

  • Encourages interaction and collaboration.

Steps in the Two-Way Process:

1. Sender: Initiates the message.

2. Message: The information being communicated.

3. Channel: The medium used (e.g., phone, face-to-face, email).

4. Receiver: Responds by providing feedback.

5. Feedback: Helps refine and improve understanding.

Key Difference:

• One-way communication is informational and lacks feedback.

• Two-way communication is interactive and involves feedback, making it more engaging and effective.

Lesson 10: The Role of Media and Information in Effective Communication

•   It makes the world a smaller place. Media makes the world a smaller place by allowing us to communicate with others from different countries and cultures easily. Whether through the internet, TV, or social media, we can instantly learn about events, news, and stories happening anywhere in the world.

•   It makes communication convenient. Media makes communication more convenient. With modern technology, we can send messages, share videos, or make calls at any time and from almost anywhere. This convenience saves time and allows people to stay connected no matter where they are.

•   It shapes public opinion. Media shapes public opinion by influencing how people think about different issues. News outlets, social media platforms, and advertisements all play a role in how information is presented to the public, which can affect people's attitudes, beliefs, and decisions. By spreading information in various forms, media helps shape the way society views topics such as politics, social issues, and even entertainment.

Lesson 11: While media can be a helpful tool for communication and a good source of information, it also comes with some risks.

1.    Misinformation and Fake News: Media can sometimes spread false or misleading information, which can confuse or deceive people. This is often done to push a personal agenda or gain, and it misinforms the audience.

2.    Abuse of Social Media: Media, especially social media, allows people to share their thoughts easily, but many abuse this freedom. People sometimes post without thinking about the consequences, leading to harmful behavior like cyberbullying. Social media makes it easier for people to say things online that they would not normally say in person.

3.    Medical, Social, and Psychological Issues: Media can also create problems in our health and relationships. For example, the way people present themselves online can make others feel bad about their own appearance, leading to body image issues. It can also cause addiction, promote identity theft, and harm relationships between people.

Lesson 12: Communication is profoundly affected by media and information, both positively and negatively.

Media and information play a huge role in how we communicate with others. They can have both positive and negative effects:

• Positive Effects: Media helps spread information quickly and connects people from all over the world. You can share ideas, learn new things, and work together with others globally, all thanks to media and information.

• Negative Effects: However, media can also spread misinformation (false information) and can lead to misunderstandings. Some people may rely too much on digital communication, which can reduce face-to-face interactions and make personal connections weaker.

It’s important to use media wisely to enjoy the positive effects while avoiding the negative ones.

Lesson 13: Key Concepts: Media Literacy, Information Literacy, and Technology Literacy

Media Literacy

Media Literacy is all about understanding and working with media in different forms, like news, social media, videos, advertisements, and more. It involves being able to access media, analyze what it's saying, evaluate if it's true or trustworthy, and even create your own media content.

The Importance of Media Literacy:

• Helps interpret media messages critically: Media literacy helps you think carefully about what you see or hear in the media. Instead of just believing everything, you learn to ask questions like, "Is this information true?" or "What is the message behind this?"

• Identifies biases or propaganda: Media isn't always neutral. Sometimes, it can show things in a way that is meant to influence your opinion or emotions. Media literacy helps you recognize when something might be biased or trying to persuade you without you realizing it.

Examples:

• Reading news articles online and fact-checking their credibility: When you read news on the internet, it’s important to check if the source is trustworthy and if the information is accurate. This helps you avoid spreading false or misleading news.

• Understanding the impact of advertisements on consumer behavior: Advertisements are everywhere, and they often try to convince you to buy something or think a certain way. Media literacy helps you understand how ads influence your decisions, so you can make more informed choices.

Media literacy is crucial for understanding and navigating the media world responsibly, helping you be a smarter consumer and creator of media.

Information Literacy

Information Literacy is about knowing how to find, evaluate, and use information in the right way. This skill helps you become more effective at doing research, solving problems, and making decisions. It also teaches you to use information ethically, meaning you use it properly and give credit where it's due.

The Importance of Information Literacy:

• Teaches research skills: Information literacy helps you know where to look for the right information when you need it, like for school projects or personal interests. It shows you how to find trustworthy sources and use them correctly.

• Encourages responsible sharing of accurate information: When you understand how to evaluate information, you can avoid sharing false or misleading information with others. It’s important to be careful about what you post or share online, especially since misinformation can spread quickly.

Examples:

• Finding reliable sources for academic work: When you're doing research for a project or paper, you need to know how to find trustworthy sources, such as academic articles or books, rather than using random websites that might not be accurate.

• Avoiding the spread of misinformation online: By practicing information literacy, you'll learn to check facts and verify details before you share them. This helps prevent the spread of fake news or rumors, which can cause confusion or harm.

Information literacy is a key skill that helps you gather and use information responsibly and accurately, which is important for school, your future career, and making smart decisions in everyday life.

Technology Literacy

Technology Literacy is the ability to use digital tools and technology effectively to access, create, and share information. It’s about understanding how to use devices like computers, smartphones, and other technology in your daily life, whether for school, work, or personal use.

Importance of Technology Literacy:

• Bridges the digital divide: Not everyone has the same level of access to technology or digital skills. By being tech literate, you can use digital tools to your advantage and avoid being left behind in a world that is increasingly connected online.

• Enhances productivity and communication: Technology helps you do things more efficiently. Whether you're creating presentations, managing schoolwork, or communicating with others, knowing how to use digital tools effectively makes everything faster and easier.

Examples:

• Creating presentations using PowerPoint: Knowing how to create a PowerPoint presentation is an important tech skill. It allows you to organize your ideas and present them clearly to your classmates or teachers.

• Navigating social media platforms responsibly: Being technology literate also means knowing how to use social media in a way that is safe, respectful, and responsible. You should be aware of privacy settings, avoid spreading false information, and treat others kindly online.

Technology literacy is about being comfortable with digital tools to help you learn, create, and communicate. It's a skill that will benefit you not only in school but in almost every aspect of your life.

Lesson 14: Similarities and Differences of Media Literacy, Information Literacy, and Technology Literacy

Similarities of Media Literacy, Information Literacy, and Technology Literacy

1. Critical Thinking: All three types of literacy involve critical thinking skills, encouraging individuals to analyze, evaluate, and make informed decisions about the information or media they interact with.

2. Responsible Use: Whether it’s media, information, or technology, each type of literacy empowers individuals to use these tools responsibly, ensuring that the content they consume and produce is accurate and ethical.

3. Communication Skills: Each literacy helps individuals communicate effectively—media literacy focuses on understanding media messages, information literacy emphasizes how to handle and share information, and technology literacy centers on using digital tools for communication.

4. Adapting to Change: They all require individuals to adapt to constantly evolving tools, platforms, and technologies, keeping up with new ways to access, create, and share content.

Differences between Media Literacy, Information Literacy, and Technology Literacy

Imagine you're trying to make a delicious cake.

·   Media Literacy is like understanding the recipe and the ingredients. You know how to read the recipe, you can identify the different types of flour and sugar, and you understand how each ingredient contributes to the final taste. In the same way, media literacy helps you understand how different types of media (like news, movies, ads) are made, what messages they're trying to convey, and how they might influence you.

• • Example: You watch a news report and think critically about whether the information is presented fairly, if there might be any bias, and how the visuals and music affect your emotions.

·   Information Literacy is like knowing how to find the best ingredients and use them wisely. You know how to find reliable sources for information (like cookbooks written by experts), you can compare different brands of flour to see which one is best, and you know how to use the ingredients safely and efficiently. Information literacy helps you find, evaluate, and use information effectively and ethically.

• • Example: You're writing a research paper and you learn how to find credible sources online, how to check if the information is accurate, and how to properly cite your sources.

·   Technology Literacy is like knowing how to use the oven and all the kitchen tools. You know how to turn on the oven, set the temperature, and use the mixer. You also know how to use different kitchen tools like measuring cups and spoons. Technology literacy means you know how to use digital tools and technology effectively.

• • Example: You learn how to use a word processor to write your essays, you know how to use the internet to research information, and you can create presentations using software like PowerPoint.

Lesson 15: Being a responsible user and producer of media promotes ethical and informed societies.

When we use and create media, it’s essential to be responsible.

• As a user: You should verify information before sharing it, respect other people's work, and avoid spreading lies or harmful content.

• As a producer: You should create content that is accurate, fair, and inclusive. This helps people make better decisions and promotes a society where everyone is informed and treated equally.

Being responsible with media helps create a world where people are well-informed, respectful of others, and aware of the impact their actions have on society. By using and producing media ethically, you contribute to a better, more thoughtful community.

Lesson 16: Media Habits, Lifestyles, and Preferences of Students

Students today are highly connected to the digital world, and their media habits, lifestyles, and preferences reflect how technology shapes their daily lives.

Below are some key aspects that highlight these trends:

1. Media Habits

• Social Media Usage:

  • Students spend a significant amount of time on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. These platforms serve as a means of communication, entertainment, and staying updated with trends.

  • Social media is often used to connect with friends, share updates, and follow influencers or celebrities.

• Multitasking with Devices:

  • Most students tend to use multiple devices at once, such as browsing on their smartphones while watching videos on YouTube or listening to music.

  • Streaming content on platforms like Netflix or YouTube while texting or browsing through social media is a common habit.

• Content Consumption:

  • Short-form content (e.g., TikTok videos, Instagram stories) is increasingly popular among students, as it fits into their fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyles.

  • YouTube is a primary platform for students to watch tutorials, vlogs, and entertainment content, making it their go-to source for information and leisure.

2. Lifestyles

• Fast-Paced and Information-Rich:

  • Students are always on the go, balancing school work, extracurricular activities, and personal time. Their media consumption often fits into this fast-paced lifestyle, with quick access to information being a priority.

  • They are accustomed to receiving instant information, whether through news apps, social media feeds, or messaging apps.

• Social and Interactive:

  • Students use social media not just for entertainment but also for socializing. Group chats, gaming, and sharing memes or videos are a part of their daily interaction with friends and peers.

  • They participate in online communities, forums, and groups related to shared interests, from academics to hobbies.

• Health and Well-Being Concerns:

  • Many students are mindful of their well-being and use digital media to track their health, such as using fitness apps, wellness blogs, or YouTube fitness videos.

  • However, some students also face challenges with screen time, leading to concerns about eye strain, mental health, and sleep disruption due to overuse of devices.

3. Media Preferences

• Video Content:

  • Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and streaming services like Netflix are their preferred sources for entertainment. They enjoy content like gaming videos, tutorials, lifestyle vlogs, and web series.

  • Podcasts and audio-based content have also grown in popularity, with students listening to podcasts related to self-improvement, education, and entertainment.

• Interactive and Engaging Content:

  • Senior high students prefer interactive content such as live streaming, polls, and quizzes on social media or educational platforms. This engagement keeps them active and involved in what they consume.

  • They also enjoy creating and sharing content, whether it's making TikToks, posting photos, or contributing to school projects using digital tools.

• News Consumption:

  • Social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram are used to stay updated with current events. However, some students may not critically evaluate the sources of news, relying on trending posts or videos.

  • They also engage with news stories shared by influencers or peers rather than traditional news outlets, shaping their view of the world.

4. Digital Literacy and Media Usage

• Educational Use of Media:

  • Students often use digital platforms for educational purposes, from researching topics for assignments to attending online classes.

  • Learning apps, Google Scholar, educational YouTube channels, and online textbooks are tools they regularly use for academic success.

• Online Shopping and E-commerce:

  • Many students shop online for clothes, gadgets, and school supplies. Platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and Zalora are popular, and they often rely on social media for product recommendations.

• Gaming Culture:

  • Video games are a huge part of their entertainment. Games like Fortnite, Call of Duty, or mobile games are a popular form of relaxation and socializing with friends.

  • Online multiplayer games also contribute to building a sense of community, as students team up with others across the globe.