Developing Digital and Media Literacies in Children and Adolescents
Kristen Hawley Turner1, Tessa Jolls2, Michelle Schira Hagerman3
1Drew University, Madison, New Jersey; krturner@fordham.edu.
Pediatrics
|November 3, 2017
Summary
Digital and media literacy are crucial for youth participation in a connected world. Investing in these skills is vital for future success, requiring focused research and policy development.
Area of Science:
- Education
- Media Studies
- Sociology
Background:
- Digital and media literacy are essential for societal participation in the modern information age.
- Youth require specific competencies to navigate digital and media landscapes effectively.
- Current understanding and support for digital and media literacy initiatives are insufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify essential digital and media literacy competencies for young citizens.
- To explore the impact of these competencies on pedagogy and student outcomes.
- To recommend research and policy priorities for advancing digital and media literacy.
Main Methods:
- Review of experimental and pilot programs in digital and media literacy.
- Analysis of existing research on competencies, pedagogy, and assessment.
- Identification of knowledge gaps and areas for future investigation.
Main Results:
- Experimental programs offer initial insights into effective digital and media literacy practices.
- Gaps in understanding and limited research support hinder progress.
- Digital and media literacy are critical for learning beyond traditional settings and workplace productivity.
Conclusions:
- Investment in youth literacy practices is necessary for human capital development in a technology-driven world.
- Clear recommendations for research and policy are needed to foster digital and media literacy.
- Addressing these priorities will ensure youth can thrive in a globally connected society.
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