ENG 105

image above is drawing of students' definition of 'Media Literacy'

In my English 105 class,

We are focusing on media and information literacy. I wanted to develop this further, as I'm finding it's a necessary bridge between the English classroom and students' lives outside of it.

I've chosen readings and course themes that I think all kinds of students can relate to and discuss. The students in my class consist of: student-athletes, students returning to school after a long break, international students, students who just graduated from high school, and continuing students.

The class is very diverse, and many are still practicing the skills needed to be a successful college student. As a result, I've invited Sparkpoint and the Educational Access Center to come in and present on their available services for students. My approach to my class this semester includes engaging students holistically, helping them feel comfortable in the classroom again, and meeting their needs where student success skills intersect with growing their confidence as writers and readers.

Focusing on media and information literacy includes analyzing advertisements, critically reflecting on where they get their news, countering fake news and alternative facts, identifying misinformation and disinformation, and discussing the digital divide as a need for equity in media representation and creation.