Back to course 'PRDV215: Mass Communication'

Topic outline

  • Unit 2: Media Literacy and Ethics

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    This second and final unit of the course examines the influence of mass media and social media on our daily interactions, and explores how social media channels construct messages that shape our perceptions. Throughout the unit, you will explore the key concepts of media literacy, establishing a foundation to navigate and critically assess media messages. Lastly, this unit offers essential guidance on assessing the reliability of the media sources we rely on to stay informed about the world.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • apply competencies to critically assess media messages in order to make informed decisions;
      • describe the role of media literacy in evaluating AI-generated content; and
      • explain the importance of ethics in media literacy for discerning and engaging responsibly with media content.

    • 2.1: Media Literacy

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        Key Concepts in Media Literacy Page
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        As mass media and social media continue to influence our daily interactions, it is important to understand how the media construct messages that influence our perceptions of others and the world around us. Read this short article about the eight key concepts of media literacy.

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        The Need for Media Literacy Page
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        Watch this short video, which explains media literacy and gives tips for evaluating the validity of the media sources we use to learn about the world.

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        AI and Media Literacy Page
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        Media literacy is becoming increasingly important in the AI era, particularly in evaluating the abundance of AI-generated content in digital environments.

    • 2.2. Digital Literacy Ethics

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        Ethics and Digital Literacy Page
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        Ethics play a pivotal role in media literacy and guide individuals to discern, analyze, and responsibly engage with media content.

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        Ethics of Social Media Page
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        Mark as done

        Social media is the newest frontier of mass communication. Social media literacy is important for human communication and traditionally mediated news communication. Today, social media crosses the boundary of personal communication into newsgathering and distribution. This raises concerns about privacy, which are discussed in this video.