Lesson 5_ Media and Information Languages _ Media and Information Literacy

Focus: Relationship between language and media
Key topics: Media language, codes, conventions, messages, producers, stakeholders, audience

Language defined by Finichioro (cited in Zhang, 2010) as a system of arbitrary vocal symbols.
Purpose: Enable communication and interaction within a culture.
Importance: Essential for effective communication.

Language in media encompasses not only words but also technical and symbolic ingredients.
Includes codes and conventions chosen to communicate ideas and information effectively.
Media language: Codes, conventions, formats, symbols, and narrative structures that convey meaning to an audience.
Helps audiences interpret the intention behind media products.

Media language reflects how producers create meaning in their work and how they transfer that to audiences.
Interpretation of media language varies based on personal context (culture, beliefs, values).
Distinction between:
- Denotative meaning: Literal meaning.
- Connotative meaning: Interpretations influenced by context and personal factors.

Tools used to construct meaning in media products; they have established meanings.
Types of media codes:
- Technical Codes: Specific to a medium; includes camera angles, lighting, and sound effects.
  - High angle shots imply vulnerability; low angle shots suggest power.
  - Close-ups draw attention to particular aspects of a scene.
- Symbolic Codes: Meanings derived not from the product itself but from audience interpretation.
  - Color symbolism (e.g., dark colors in horror films).
  - Iconic symbols (e.g., the Nazi symbol for historical context).
- Written Codes: Formal written language in media.
  - Includes on-screen text, headlines, and dialogue.

Refers to methods for organizing codes based on standards understood by audiences.
Types of media conventions:
- Form Conventions: Arrangement of media codes (e.g., title at the beginning, credits at the end).
- Story Conventions: Basic narrative structures (e.g., rise of the underdog story).
- Genre Conventions: Common elements in specific genres (e.g., zombies in apocalyptic narratives).

Media messages: Information conveyed from a source to a receiver; shaped by individual experiences.
Interpretation varies based on personal background (age, gender, culture).
Example: Kardashian influence on social media and body image issues.

Individuals involved in creating media content.
Importance of skills: Producers must assess content correctly and align information with audience needs.
Examples: Journalists, writers, directors, and technical staff.

People or organizations with shared interests in media production and consumption.
Examples: TV networks, film festivals, award organizations (e.g., Oscars, Grammys).

Group of consumers for whom a media message was created; anyone exposed to the message.
All consumers of media products and formats contribute to meaning-making.

Recap of relationship between language, media, and interpretation.
Understanding of codes, conventions, messages, producers, stakeholders, and audiences enhances media literacy.