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Look at the photo on the right. What do you think was happening when it was taken?
We see a rifle from one soldier in a uniform pointing at another soldier in a different uniform... perhaps about to be shot in the head? A brutal execution, maybe?
What if the picture is not what it seems?
We may never know... but it is natural for us to take a stand, when shown something which provokes our emotions. This is one example of how the media can influences us, viewers.
In short, online media literacy - or digital literacy - is about the ability to identify the messages behind digital media, and be able to think critically about its source (credibility) and also contribute responsibly as a netizen.
Want to know the full picture behind the photo? It will be revealed at the end of this section :)
Let's watch a video to learn how to view online media critically.
In summary, it is important that when we are viewing information or media online, we do not take everything as the truth, unless it is from a reputable source. It is important to 'fact-check' information from unofficial or anonymous sources to prevent us from being misled by dubious means of reporting or advertising.
Do you have a habit of fact-checking sources that you read online?
By not checking the sources, many people have fallen prey into scams and suspicious advertisements online. Opportunist criminals may even make use of prominent figures such as government leaders or celebrities to support their products.
In other cases, fake news can also cause undue panic and anxiety amongst readers. For example, in the early days of the Covid-19 outbreak in 2020, several fake reports were circulated over social media such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Facebook. As many as 6 in 10[1] people in Singapore have received fake Covid-19 related news!
The matter was so serious that the government decided to create a website just to debunk the fake news. You can click here to view it.
As users of social media platforms and the Internet, we must also be responsible when putting up posts on social media - whether it is to our close friends and loved ones, or in public forums and domains where it can be viewed by anyone on the Internet.
As users of social media platforms and the Internet, we must also be responsible when putting up posts on social media - whether it is to our close friends and loved ones, or in public forums and domains where it can be viewed by anyone on the Internet.
We should not share or forward unverified news or social media messages freely. Do not spread rumours, and always exercise caution when commenting on sensitive issues including religion, race and politics.
We should not share or forward unverified news or social media messages freely. Do not spread rumours, and always exercise caution when commenting on sensitive issues including religion, race and politics.
So, what was really going on with the photo at the start of this section? Here's a picture to sum it all up. You can read about the story behind the photo by clicking this link. See how powerful an edited photo can blind the truth?
Online Media Literacy.pdfReport abuse