Media Literacy: Concept, Theoretical Explanation, and its Importance in the Digital Age

Abstract

Nowadays, when the flow of fake news in traditional media and on social media platforms has increased dramatically, media literacy skills are more important than ever. Media literacy promotes the critical thinking skills that enable people to make independent choices, in particular how to evaluate and choose different information sources and channels, as well as how to interpret the news and information received through those channels. For instance, the advent of new media technologies has brought drastic and dramatic changes in the media landscape globally. Digital media advancements (Multimedia, social media, and communication technologies) have permeated the aspect of human life (social, political, economic, and cultural). The cultural practices of doing things, learning, and personal life domains receive a significant influence from digitally enhanced communities. Most scholars agree that, at its core, media literacy depends on both knowledge and skills. In particular, individuals need to acquire knowledge about key facets of the mass media phenomenon, such as media industries, media messages, media audiences, or media effects. Also, they should be able to apply this knowledge when accessing, analysing, and evaluating all kinds of media messages. The theoretical explanation of media literacy discourages the protectionist approach and recognises and acknowledges the sociocultural effect of media in our mass-mediated society. The theoretical focus of media literacy bases on three aims, first, facilitating democracy, participation, and active citizenship. Second, knowledge economy, competition and choice, and lastly, lifelong learning, cultural expression, and personal fulfilment. The current article draws on the existing literature to explore the concept of media literacy, the theoretical explanation of media literacy, and the importance of media literacy in the digital age

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