Media Literacy

Definition: The ability to sift through and analyze messages that inform, entertain, and sell daily.
Importance: Involves critical thinking applied to various media formats, including films and digital content.
Core Questions:
- What messages are present?
- What messages are absent?
- What motives, values, and ownership influence the content?
Quote by Jane Tallim: Highlights the critical questioning aspect of media literacy.

Construction of Messages: All media messages are crafted deliberately.
Subjective Experience: Different individuals interpret the same media message uniquely.
Embedded Values: Media contain inherent values and perspectives that shape narratives.
Profit and Power Motives: Most media aim to achieve financial gain or influence.

Creation and Techniques:
- Questions to Ask:
  - Who created the message?
  - What techniques engage the audience?
Interpretation:
- Consideration for Understanding:
  - How do different demographics perceive the message?

Print Media: Traditional media involving paper and ink, produced through printing processes.
Broadcast Media: Information transmitted electronically through films, radio, TV, etc.
Digital Media: Comprises online content and mobile applications (excluding social media).
Social Media: Platforms promoting social interaction and engagement.

Engagement and Attention: Algorithms prioritize content that evokes emotions for user engagement.
Personalized Content: Tailored information shown based on user preferences.
Filter Bubble: Users only see content that aligns with their existing beliefs due to algorithm biases.
Cognitive Bias: Limitations in thought processes influenced by personal viewpoints and experiences.
Confirmation Bias: The tendency to favor information that supports pre-existing beliefs.

News Cycle: The period during which news is trending.
Narrative: The main idea or thesis of a story.
Framing: The context in which a story is presented.
Bias vs. Objectivity: Understanding differences between biased information and objective reporting.
Echo Chamber: When media outlets repeat each other's stories, limiting diverse viewpoints.

Fake News: Can fall under two categories:
- Misinformation: False information, not necessarily intentional.
- Disinformation: Intention to deceive with false information.
Corroboration: Seeking out additional sources to verify claims within a story.
Lateral Reading: Checking credibility by researching multiple sources simultaneously.

Classic Conservative vs. Classic Liberal:
- Conservative Traits:
  - Preference for smaller government.
  - Emphasis on traditional family values.
  - Individual responsibility over social programs.
  - Pro-business and less prioritization of environmentalism.
  - Typically hawkish foreign policy.
- Liberal Traits:
  - Belief in government intervention and inclusivity.
  - Supporting social programs and prioritization of environmental issues.
  - Generally more dovish on foreign policy.