Articles > Media Literacy Basics
Begin your basic understanding of media and media literacy using the articles below. Basic definitions of media and media literacy are included, as well as an introduction of media literacy's core principles and general questions.
What is the media? - Before trying to analyze the media, understanding what media is should be the first priority.
What is media literacy? - Media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, and create media in all its forms. Go more in depth with this article.
The basics of media literacy. - An in-depth explaination of media literacy and teh concepts behind it.
Censorship vs. media literacy - While some advocate censorship as the way to keep offensive material from children, others advocate media literacy to preserve first amendment freedoms.
The purpose of the media - Why does the media exist? Learn about the intentions behind the creation of most media messages.
The Core Principles of Media Literacy Education - Read an overview of the core concepts of media literacy, and then click below to read about each one in greater detail.
1. All media messages are “constructed.”2. Each medium has different characteristics, strengths, and a unique “language” of construction.3. Media messages are produced for particular purposes.4. All media messages contain embedded values and points of view.5. People use their individual skills, beliefs and experiences to construct their own meanings from media messages.6. Media and media messages can influence beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviors, and the democratic process.
Questions for Understanding Media - Basic questions to ask when analyzing any piece of media.
1. Who Sent Me This Message?2. What Is This Message's Intention?3. Where Was This Message Placed For My Consumption?4. Why Was This Message Sent?5. How Do I View This Message And Might Others View It?
