Media Literacy: Why is Media Literacy Important?

Why is Media Literacy Important?

In today's world, we are inundated with media messaging more than ever before. A 2022 study by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that average screen time among teens outside of school had more than doubled during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic numbers, now at 7.7 hours a day compared to 3.8 hours a day pre-pandemic. Take a second to reflect on how your use of media has changed in recent years. How are different forms of new media, especially social media, affecting children and adults? Given the rise of online misinformation and fake news, skyrocketing anxiety, depression and body dysmorphia related to social media, and increasing political tensions and divisions, what are the strategies, tools, and habits we need to cultivate in order to thrive in this new media landscape?

This resource guide is meant to provide resources from experts on these important questions. Here you will find information on Media Literacy, Fake News, Resources for Educators, Resources for Parents, and Digital Citizenship.