Defining Literacy in the Media Arts Classroom

Being literate in Media Arts means being able to use technical tools and skills to create, analyze, interpret, and reflect on media art works while effectively conveying their message and purpose for their intended audience. This literacy also includes the ability to critically assess media messages, understand their cultural and social impact, and use technology responsibly by considering how identity and values are expressed and represented in media arts. 

For example, the Ontario curriculum expects students to apply the creative process in developing media art works through brainstorming, research, and exploring different media and techniques (Strand A1 - The Creative Process). Students are also encouraged to develop their critical thinking skills by examining and interpreting other artists’ work to understand their intent, while assessing and refining their own work based on feedback and reflection (Strand B1 - The Critical Analysis Process).