MEDIA LITERACY: BECOMING A MEDIA LITERATE INDIVIDUAL
As we are now living in the 21st century, internet has been frequently used by many and considered our home. Perhaps, we can't live without our phones on our side, it is like we are afraid to lose it and if we do we go buy another. Unfortunately, we consume most of our time browsing on the social media reading some nonsense content that could negatively affect us especially our mental health. Online platforms are designed for entertainment, however, people used it in a wrong way. This serve as a barrier for every individual since social media websites contains large amounts of fake news and untrusted users. Approximately facebook has 15 percent of untrustworthy users, while there is only 6 percent trustworthy sites as what Andrew Guess, the researcher of the Princeton University has stated (Tran, 2021).
P.R.O.V.E.N METHOD FOR SOURCES EVALUATION (Canfield, 2017)
Evaluating the data received is a complex process for it includes profound examination of the sources and checking other sources as well. Through this method that covers numerous questions, promotes critical thinking about the accuracy and reliability of information is a big help for determining truth behind the content posted online.
PURPOSE: How and why the source has been made?
- Why does this content/information emerged? (Is it to educate, inform, persuade or entertain?)
- Why was this information posted in this type of text or source?
- Who is the intended audience?
RELEVANCE: The value of the source for your needs.
- Is the type of source appropriate for your needs or does it provide useful information?
- How useful the information was?
- How detailed it was?
OBJECTIVITY: The reasonableness and completeness of the information.
- Do the writer's information presented in a professional way?
- Do the writer involves some political, ideological, cultural, or religious viewpoint? Do they try to acknowledge something or deceived viewers?
- Do the sources present factual information or just a personal thought? Is it biased or unbiased?
VERIFIABILITY: The accuracy and truthfulness of the information.
- Does the information supported of the experts about the issue?
- What was the statement of the experts about the issue?
- Does the source presented false information and contradiction to other perspectives?
- Is the information contains many grammatical errors, punctuation and wrong spelling?
EXPERTISE: The authority of the authors and the source.
- What is the connection of the author to the source authorities of the topic? Do they have same level of education or experience?
- Is the source already been reviewed by an editor through peer-review?
- Does it provide contact information of author and publishers?
NEWNESS: The age of information.
- Does the information from the older sources is useful and valid?
- When was it published or posted? Does it have references or links?
- Are the newer sources accessible that add information for better comprehension?
Since we are always on our phone throughout the day, let us be responsible on using social media. We must be a literate in media and information. Do not share information immediately without deeper reflection, primarily if we aren't sure of its truthfulness, share mindfully instead. Remember, think about the audience before posting. Furthermore, we have our freedom of expression but that does not mean we can share anything, never share personal and controversial content possibly people may use it against you. Treat others respectfully and control emotions online and offline. In addition, limit screen time to eliminate eye problems.
Media is regarded as a main source of all information aside from it is accessible, we do not take effort to go to the library anymore looking for books or articles that suits to our needs and preferences. We became aware of what was happening through news reporting that keep us informed all the time. Hence, we got educated based on what we see, read and heard, however it still depend what type of content we are watching or reading. Conversely, media might also be a means why false information arise, since manipulation of other works to draw audiences' attention is a piece of cake. Lastly, there are various techniques to convince viewers to adopt a particular viewpoint promoting ideologies, and norms in social context.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the constant barrage of information in today's media landscape? Please share your answer below through leaving a comments☺️
Comments
Post a Comment