Over the past year, we have massively moved online. We experience a great deal of enjoyment and convenience from our use of digital media. We work and learn remotely and keep in touch with family and friends. But our lives in that online world are also under pressure. While we are constantly connected to one another via smartphones, tablets and computers, we are concerned about increasing polarisation (SCP, 2019). While all the world's knowledge is within reach, the growing amount of disinformation makes it difficult to assess whether something is really true. And while we can move freely online, it sometimes does not feel safe there because of hate and cybercrime.
Together, we can ensure that the online world remains a pleasant place. A place where we listen to one another's opinions and can uphold our values. A place where we pay attention to how our message comes across to others and give one another the space to think differently. Also a place where we help one another, stand up for one another and intervene when we see that something is going wrong. In this way, the online world remains for everyone and belongs to everyone.
Media Literacy Week (5 to 12 November 2021) is themed: Together Social Online. Together, we are taking a moment to reflect on what we REALLY consider important in the online world. During this campaign, space is being made to discuss this with one another, and you will receive tools to make yourself or someone else more media literate. This way, we all become a little more resilient and digitally skilled.
Getting started with media literacy in the classroom
Many schools see it as their responsibility to make students media literate. Media Literacy Week is therefore the perfect opportunity to devote extra attention to students' online behaviour and media use.
Media Literacy Week has compiled ideas and tips for education for:
- Primary Education
- Secondary Education
- Vocational Education, Higher Professional Education and University
- Special Education