Project Literacy Among Youth

Imagining the Possibilities of School

2012-02-28T08:47:00.002-05:00

In a rich example of student-produced journalism, the Santa Barbara Middle School Teen Press interviews educational innovator Sir Ken Robinson backstage at his UCSB Arts and Lectures appearance on February 21st. These well-spoken young people ask Robinson to design a learning place of his dreams. In this 3-part interview, the teens ask thoughtful questions, such as "What would your learning place be called?" "What would students study?" "Would you have recess?" "How would you manage distractions?" and "How would you assess students' work?" In exchange for his responses, the teens offer to sign a blank check over to him. The respect and rapport between Robinson and the teens is endearing. (Watch Part III to see the teens dress him up as Elvis).

Why Online Professionalism Matters

2012-02-07T21:14:00.000-05:00

It's quite a challenge to cultivate a sense of online professionalism among the pre-service teachers that I teach every semester. For some, the transition from college student to professional teacher is a bumpy one—and not every candidate is successful. The first task I have students in my online technology module complete is to craft a "professional-looking" profile photo that would interest (not repel) a potential employer. And, I will add, interest an employer for all the right reasons. That's why I was elated when came across this cleverly-crafted video clip, "Overexposed" by Nicholas Chen and Edan Freiberger. It visually (and somewhat comedically) expresses what my pre-services teachers don't think about before they venture forth "into the field," as we call it in teacher education. It's a must-see:

Steven W. Anderson (@web20classroom) also posted some useful tips on teachhub.com how to take care of one's online identity. [learn more]

The Need for Worldwide Media Literacy

2012-02-04T10:23:00.000-05:00

Digital knuckle bump to Dina Pielaet of Ventura College (in my home state of California) for producing an elegant introductory video on media literacy. What I find exceptional about Dina's video is that its form follows its function: Unlike other Web 2.0 videos out there that mimic the MTV fast-paced in-your-face speed of modern life, Dina's video is slower and almost soothing. The slow pace and the artistic visuals compel the viewer to slow down and ponder the vast sea of information. It's the antithesis of the stress and compulsiveness that plague many of us today. At the same time, it raises serious concerns and issues a call to action for all of us that believe in the democratic ideal. The 25-minute video is definitely worth viewing and sharing:

media literacy from dina pielaet on Vimeo.

A docu-slideshow on the need for worldwide media literacy as well as a need for worldwide awareness on the effects of capitalism

Rethinking Schooling

2012-01-31T01:00:00.001-05:00

Sir Ken Robinson is one of my favorite thinkers and speakers. The video "Changing Educational Paradigms" is a must-see for anyone interested in rethinking the public purpose and function of schools. With this entertaining RSAnimate video, Robinson leads us into a deeper understanding of the tensions and contradictions of public education and the essential need to change the underlying structures and practices in a system of education that is outdated and broken.

I particularly appreciate Robinson contrasting the marginalization of the arts (or the aesthetic experience) with the "anesthetizing" effects of standardized testing. Particularly disturbing is his assertion that the ADHD epidemic is fictitious. Instead of deadening our children, we should be awakening their senses. Robinson calls attention to the outdated factory model of schooling and the dangers of conformity ("educating students in batches"). He references a longitudinal study on divergent thinking (or the essential capacity for creativity—which all children have). Sadly, divergent thinking is stunted as children progress through years of formal schooling ("There is one answer"). Robinson's solutions:

Think differently about human capacity;
Get over the old conception between academic and vocational;
Acknowledge that collaboration is where learning occurs;

10 Steps to Media and Technology Literacy

2012-01-21T00:18:00.000-05:00

I was recently reminded of this workshop I facilitated from June 2011 and thought it was worth re-posting. Enjoy.

As part of the MSU Network for Educational Renewal Summer Conference, I facilitated a mini-workshop for two engaging groups of teachers and administrators. (Thank you all for your lively participation). As promised, here are the links to my materials that you can (and should) turnkey within your school districts. I recommend that you download the 10 Steps flyer and use it as a guide alongside the Prezi slideshow.

10 Steps to Media and Technology Literacy

10 Steps [color pdf flyer]
Copyright & Fair Use for Teachers [pdf "cheat sheet"]
Sample Curriculum Map (English) & rationale
Sample Curriculum Map (Math) & rationale
Sample Curriculum Map (History) & rationale

If you'd like to form a study group at your school around technology and a particular content area, or need on-site or online coaching during the 2011-2012 school year, feel free to [contact me]. Happy summer, Everyone.

An Education/Technology Tipping Point

2011-12-02T10:13:00.009-05:00

Gadwell's Tipping Point

This week I facilitated a compelling discussion among my undergraduate pre-service teachers about the public purposes of education and schooling in the United States. I framed the discussion using the ideas from Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point as they relate to education and technology. I love Gladwell's work because he takes theories and ideas from the social sciences and shows how they can have real relevance to our lives— which is exactly how I want my pre-service teachers to approach theory and practice (praxis). He's also a brilliant and thoughtful writer. Drawing from the fields of psychology, sociology and epidemiology, Gladwell uses examples from the worlds of business and education and fashion and media to show that little changes ultimately make a big difference. I asked students to consider tipping points within the history of education (and in the United States. I asked pre-service teachers to view the 2008 feature documentary by David Hoffman titled, Sputnik Mania (55 minutes) that tells the story of what happened to American education during that period in the 1950s. The film powerfully pieces together old footage to illustrate how the U.S. changed our educational system so radically in science, engineering, and math. It's compelling and technically very well done (Hoffman even begins by thanking all those who captured footage between 1956 and 1958). I add my knuckle bump:

What makes Sputnik Mania a brilliant teaching tool is how it emotively conveys the "blessing and a curse" complexity about the U.S. governmental push for increased educational rigor and standardized testing in the United States. Coupled with the economic prosperity of the baby boomer generation, it conveys a vulnerability and a tension between the pursuit of individual prosperity (consumerism) and the collective responsibility of a nation (citizenship) while also confounding the notion of "defense." (From who or what are we actually defending our nation?).

We discussed such questions as: What does the "good life" and the "American Dream" mean in a post-Cold War era? What should our 2011 high school graduates know and be able to do? Why does it mean to privilege standardized test scores (a la No Child Left Behind) and test performance above all else? We tied these questions back to Gladwell's ideas in The Tipping Point. Given the current climate of economic insecurity; global warfare; excessive emphasis on standardized testing and consequent shrinking of school curriculum; the demonization of teachers and the marginalization of teaching as a profession; high rates of childhood obesity and increased sedentary lifestyles associated with digital lifestyles. . . have we reached another tipping point in the history of education in the United States? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this discussion (as well as the works of Gladwell and Hoffman) below.

Educator Development (Not Teacher Preparation)

2011-11-14T14:58:00.002-05:00

This week I was invited to the National Convening on Clinical Practice in teacher preparation in Washington, DC. The event brought together university and P-12 partners from around the country to grapple with questions of how to implement new models for clinically based teacher preparation. My home institution, Montclair State University's College of Education, is one of 11 institutions participating in the Teachers for a New Era: A National Initiative to Improve the Quality of Teaching. Panels and working sessions drew from findings from cross-site visits to three TNE Learning Network universities with distinctive clinical practice programs— Arizona State University, Indiana State University, and Montclair State University—as well as research and promising practices from the field. These 2 days in Washington DC highlighted promising practices in clinical experiences for teacher candidates at a number of innovative programs around the country. I particularly appreciated the opportunities for cross-site sharing around critical issues and innovations in clinical experience, including P-12 partnerships, assessment strategies, and preparation of cooperating teachers. My contribution is as course coordinator for the Public Purposes of Education—the urban field-based pre-requisite course for MSU's secondary teacher education program.

CyberWise Guide to Media Literacy

2011-11-09T13:37:00.004-05:00

This is a simple guide to help parents and educators understand what it means to be media literate in the 21st Century. This is the second video of the CyberWise Guide Series.
This Guide helps grownups understand that because technology has transformed the media landscape, the definition of media literacy has expanded. Knowing how to interpret and tell stories across all mediums is now an essential skill for the 21st century. [learn more]

Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction

2011-11-07T23:51:00.005-05:00

[download PDF]

This highly idiosyncratic Top 10 list was my starting point for a 3-session professional development mini-course (Using Technology to Differentiate Instruction Among Gifted Learners) for teachers in northern New Jersey. There are so many more technologies that could be added to this list; however, I wanted to place the importance on the ability of an educator to articulate how a specific technology can support specific teaching strategies and ideally transform the learning environment. Feel free to use or adapt to your own setting.

A Blueprint for Teaching Young Children in a Digital Age

2011-11-05T00:27:00.003-04:00

The challenge of improving teacher preparation and ongoing learning led to the creation of the Digital Age Teacher Preparation Council, established by the Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop and the Stanford Educational Leadership Institute, with generous support from the Joyce Foundation. Beginning in January 2010 a group of experts in a range of fields, including teacher education, public service media, literacy, technology, science and mathematics, and developmental science, convened to study emerging best practices, policy and program trends, as well as innovative approaches to enhancing children’s learning and teacher education and support. The Council’s work is the basis for Take a Giant Step, which states 5 key goals for the United States to meet by 2020 as well as immediate and discrete step-wise actions to provide significant innovation in instruction and teacher preparation. These 5 goals are:

Creating communities

of practice with a great deal more teacher

collaboration and planning than is currently

evident. E

ducation leaders need

to restructure time and staffing so that teachers

can work together and with groups of students

in new ways that are supported by technology.

Train early educators to integrate digital and screen media into their teaching practices in developmentally appropriate ways.
Expand use of public media as a resource for teachers, including creating innovative models for public-private partnership investments.
Integrate technology supports into standards, curriculum, and teaching.
Creation of R&D partnerships suited to the digital age.

You can download the entire report by [clicking here].

Live Chat: Fostering Digital Citizenship (Nov 7)

2011-11-04T17:47:00.001-04:00

In conjunction with Canada's Media Literacy Week, the National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) is hosting a bi-national call to action in a live chat Monday Nov 7th 7:00pm EST. The conversation will center on what it means to be a digital citizen: Around the world, grassroots efforts, government entities, lobbying groups, corporate interests, and nearly every other form of civic organization are deeply enmeshed online. Even basic civic and political participation requires considerable digital media literacy skills. As avid users of digital media, young people need to know how to engage in virtual spaces before invisible audiences―persuasively, critically and collectively. Digital media literacy education is key to repositioning young media users from consumers to citizens. Come chat with us! [learn more]

Media Literacy Week Nov 7-11

2011-11-04T09:55:00.000-04:00

This year's theme of Canada's Media Literacy Week is Digital Citizenship. Media Awareness Network (MNet) and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) call on Canadians to encourage young people to reflect on their online lives, and their rights and responsibilities as they navigate the digital world. Cathy Wing, MNet’s Co-Executive Director, says “Through digital media, young people have a platform for communication and engagement that was nonexistent a generation ago. Adults have a huge role to play in ensuring youth also have the critical thinking skills to use this technology wisely and responsibly. With this year’s theme we want to encourage youth to use digital media for positive activities – for advocacy, creative expression and civic engagement.” November events include a Facebook contest, Internet Privacy Event, Digital Citizenship Video Screenings, Student Film Festivals and a National Film Board "CineRobotheque." [events calendar]

Teacher Education, Service Learning & the Law of Reciprocity

2011-10-22T14:22:00.009-04:00

Because of its symbiotic nature, service learning is a powerful mechanism for urban teacher education. A service learning pedagogy supports academic and civic engagement among pre-service teachers and increases their openness to take risks, accept challenges and question the status quo. Yet less than 25 percent of all teacher education programs provide their candidates with service learning opportunities.
This past weekend I participated in the Annual Meeting of the National Network for Educational Renewal (NNER) in Hartford, CT. The mission of the NNER is to facilitate (among its members) the simultaneous renewal of schools and the institutions that prepare teachers. Representing the Montclair State University Network for Educational Renewal, I had the pleasure of co-presenting with my colleague Dan Wolf, a six-year teacher from First Avenue School in Newark, NJ. For the past 4 years, we have collaborated on the undergraduate field-based course (Public Purposes of Education). The course is prerequisite for all candidates applying for admission into MSU's nationally-acclaimed teacher education program.

In our presentation ("Service Learning an the Law of Reciprocity: Catalyzing Educational Renewal and High Quality Teacher Preparation") Dan and I discuss the community service component of the course. Each student must complete at least 10 hours of service and support (the other hours are spent shadowing a teacher and participating in meetings). We use an online calendar for school teachers to post or "advertise" their service needs and MSU students monitor the calendar for opportunities that fit into their busy schedules. They contact the teachers directly and gain experience in navigating collegial relationships while engaging in professional communication.

Table 1. Service Activities at FAS 2010

Reciprocity is the rule as teacher education candidates gain privileged access to an urban school setting that is complex, dynamic and ever changing; simultaneously, MSU provides more than 3,000 hours of service every semester to Newark Public Schools. This service support is tailored to meet the authentic, felt needs of each of the 9 school sites that participate in this course partnership.The types of service activities vary across schools during any given semester (see Table 1).
If you're interested in hearing more about using technology to facilitate service learning in teacher education [contact us].

References

Anderson, J.B., & Erickson, J.A. (2003, Summer). Service-learning in preservice teacher education. Academic Exchange Quarterly, 7(2), 111-115.

Baldwin, S.C., Buchanan, A.M., & Rudisill, M.E. (2007). What teacher candidates learned about diversity, social justice, and themselves from service learning experiences. Journal of Teacher Education, 58(4), 315-317.

Daniels, K.N., Patterson, G., & Dunston, Y. (2010, September). Rules of engagement: A service learning pedagogy for pre-service teacher education. Journal for Civic Commitment, 15, 1-16.

Jacoby, B., & Associates. (2003). Building partnerships for service-learning. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Knight and Days of Media Literacy

2011-10-01T10:18:00.001-04:00

This past weekend I had the pleasure of participating in DM3C Live—a conversation about the intersection of digital and media literacy and civic engagement at the Knight School of Communication at Queens University of Charlotte (NC). Community Coordinator Jennifer Hull immaculately executed a 3-day luxury retreat that included a stimulating reception at the Levine Museum of the New South and a 2-day series of relaxed discussions at the Duke Mansion. I was honored to be invited as a session facilitator along with Dan Gillmor and John A. McArthur. I discovered that southern hospitality is not myth, but a reality thanks to the grace and poetic style of Van King, Dean of the Knight School. There were other media literacy VIPs in attendance including David Considine and Kathleen Tyner (whose work I've admired for decades). Over the course of 3 days (and much food) we brainstormed and discussed how digital and media literacy might support community engagement through the lens of Crossroads Charlotte. I left DM3C invigorated and returned to New Jersey with some big questions for moving forward in my own work in teacher education:

The brilliant & media literate Kathleen Tyner (left)
and adoring fan Vanessa Domine (right) chit chat
out on the veranda of the Duke Mansion.

How do we cultivate the art of civil dissent among young people?
When is it necessary to shut down digital dialogue in favor of face-to-face deliberation?
How can we subordinate the uses of technology to privilege community engagement?
How can we achieve reciprocity through service-learning at P-16 levels?
How can community organizations, public libraries, and schools work together to cultivate civic engagement among young people?
How can teachers model civic engagement and meaningful contributions to communal conversation?
Aren't we all digital citizens and therefore share the responsibility for "moderating" online discussions?

Look for the Knight School at Queens to disseminate the results of the DM3C forum in several media forms. Let's keep the conversation and momentum going.

DM3C Live: Engaging Students, Community & the Field of Communication

2011-09-27T19:28:00.002-04:00

To contribute to and expand the emerging field of digital and media literacy, the Knight School of Communication at Queens University of Charlotte is engaging three constituencies: Students, Community and the field of Communication to foster a high level of civic engagement and learning among university students who in turn will become the digital and media literacy champions in the surrounding community. Queens defines its values as: focus on students, integrity and respect, stewardship, creativity and innovation, and service.

(click to enlarge)

As part of a $5.75 million grant from the Knight Foundation, Queens University is creating an interactive website, an online journal and an annual forum of the "best minds" in the field. This inaugural "best minds" event is taking place this week in Charlotte, NC: Dr. John A. McArthur will host the first session on "The Big Picture" followed by Dan Gillmor's facilitation of "Nitty Gritty Details." Dr. Vanessa Domine will facilitate the third session, "Movers and Shakers." The discussions across 3 days will generate Statements of Intent on key forum topics that can serve as inspiration for future community engagement, research, teaching and learning. The results of DM3C Live will be digitized and shared for public dissemination and future collaboration. You can follow the event on Twitter via #DM3Cclt

International Perspectives on Youth Media

2011-09-20T21:27:00.004-04:00

Dr. JoEllen Fisherkeller

Digital knuckle bump to my former doctoral advisor at New York University and media education scholar extraordinaire Dr. JoEllen Fisherkeller on the release of her book, International Perspectives on Youth Media: Cultures of Production and Education (Peter Lang). Here's the run down:This book documents and analyzes transnational research on youth media production and distribution projects both in and out of school. With comprehensive theoretical analyses, notes, and bibliographies, each chapter includes a case study, illuminating the variety and diversity of youth media projects around the world. Contributors span multiple disciplines and regions, and their perspectives provide a rich and comparative resource for readers.

The information gathered here is a valuable tool in assessing the potential of youth media programs; the book intends to make positive contributions to youth media practices, scholarship, policy, and advocacy, and ultimately, to help young people around the world think, feel, and act like powerful and expressive participants in their local and global multi-mediated realities. An accompanying website provides a comprehensive and up-to-date list of programs, projects, research reports, and publications relating to youth media—an important resource for scholars and students in the field.

The book contains 19 chapters of original research on projects in Brazil, the Middle East, South Africa, India, Singapore, Australia, Scandinavia, Canada, and 3 different regions of the United States.[learn more]

A Teacher's Guide to Media Literacy

2011-09-13T14:30:00.006-04:00

Two of my favorite media literacy educators are NAMLE founding member Cyndy Scheibe and NAMLE founding president Faith Rogow. They have just co-authored a much-needed textbook for teachers: The Teacher's Guide to Media Literacy: Critical Thinking in a Multimedia World (Corwin Press). The text addresses the question: "What does it mean to be literate in today's world, and how can those literacy skills be developed?" Scheibe and Rogow provide concrete, innovative ways to integrate media literacy across the curriculum to teach students to be independent, skilled, and reflective thinkers. In addition to dozens of activity ideas, the text and companion website include self-reflection exercises, voices from the field, a glossary of terms, and seven annotated, original, classroom-tested lesson plans that illustrate different approaches to media literacy in the classroom. As a bonus, if you pre-order the text through the NAMLE Marketplace, a percentage of the sale goes towards promoting media literacy education in the United States.[learn more]

NetGeneration of Youth's Global Party with a Purpose

2011-09-11T16:14:00.006-04:00

On September 12th, in honor of the "9-11 Weekend of Remembrance" the Global NetGeneration of Youth will host their second in a series of Global Parties with a Purpose. NetGeneration of Youth (NGY) Ambassador Clubs at six sister site schools in the US and throughout Africa (Uganda, South Africa and Zambia) will conduct local youth led parties that Celebrate Life and Its Possibilities where students Remember, Reflect and Acknowledge those who have made a difference in their lives and Spotlight how they individually and collectively are making a difference in the lives of others. Then, using SMART's Bridgit collaborative software, the NGY Ambassadors Celebrate by linking to their peers around the world - Demonstrate their evolving Media Literacy skills by sharing audio visuals on their desk tops during a 90 minute global party, and Post their community service narratives, photos and videos on the 'Parties with a Purpose Discussion Board' on the NING Website before and after the party.

To learn more about the NetGeneration of Youth (NGY) model that cultivates global citizens and media literate leaders committed to service on a global stage or to discuss joining the NGY Global Community of Practice, contact Dr Ronnie Lowenstein, NGY Founder at rbl50@aol.com.

Editorial note: Some of the brilliant work of the NGY can be found at the following links:

Media & Technology Professional Development (PLAY Catalog 2011-2012 )

2011-08-27T23:51:00.013-04:00

The 2011-2012 catalog of PLAY workshops, courses and other programs is now available for download. You'll find a variety of professional development opportunities in the areas of technology integration, media literacy education, social networking & technology planning.
Formats are flexible—with online courses, on-site workshops and hybrid versions. We can even custom-tailor a set of experiences that addresses the current needs of your educational organization.

Please contact us to determine your exact needs, availability and pricing: programs@kidsplay.org.

Come PLAY with us.

[download brochure]

10 Steps to Making Your Classroom More Media & Technology Literate this Fall

2011-08-19T20:19:00.002-04:00

As all of you educators out there gear up for the new school year, I assure you that by following these 10 simple steps, it will lead you down the path to a more media and technology-literate classroom. I created this "cheat sheet" for a workshop I facilitated this past June at Montclair State University, but I think it's worth re-posting. Let it be your anchor for the 2011-2012 school year. And please share it with colleagues. [download pdf]

UNESCO Launches Media & Information Literacy Curriculum for Teachers

2011-07-30T11:15:00.004-04:00

Alton Grizzle dazzled NAMLE conference attendees this past week with (among other things) the global and groundbreaking curriculum that UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) released earlier this month: Media and Information Literacy Curriculum for Teachers. What I find hopeful and inspiring is that Alton comes from the world of information systems AND he's an educator. So he understands the integration and unification that has to occur across disciplines and industries. His is a peacemaking mission of sorts—and on a global level. I appreciate that the curriculum takes a holistic approach to media and technology ("the convergence of radio, television, internet, newspapers, books, digital archives and libraries"). And best of all, it's targeted to teachers for immediate implementation into the school curriculum, regardless of their geographical location. If you'd like to stay updated on this and other projects from UNESCO, I recommend subscribing to their newsletter. [Download Curriculum] [Subscribe to Newsletter].

NAMLE 2011 Conference Highlights

2011-07-25T20:32:00.037-04:00

More than 350 media literacy educators (teachers, professors, journalists, film makers, non-profit execs, activists) convened in Philly this past weekend for NAMLE 2011 Conference: "Global Visions, Local Connections: Voices in Media Literacy Education." The City of Brotherly Love was a perfect context for what turned out to be a highly social and intellectually stimulating 4 days. For the sake of full disclosure, I served as Program Chair for the past 2 years (!) of event planning while on the NAMLE Board of Directors. I am particularly pleased with the diversity of programming as reflected in the strands that emerged from a record-breaking 200+ submissions in response to our call for proposals. I highlight the emergent strands because I think they not only signal tremendous growth of NAMLE as a membership organization, but also articulate the complexity and richness of the field of media literacy education. The conference strands were:

Two of my favorite attendees—
Ronnie Lowenstein & Douglas Rushkoff. You can find
Rushkoff's latest book [here]

Curriculum Development & Integration
Community Engagement & Social Change
Voices from China
Digital Storytelling
Faith-based Media Literacy
Health Literacy
Media and Diversity
News Literacy
Parent Education
Research
Social Media and Civic Engagement
School-University Partnerships
Teacher Education

I also debuted this year the Meet the Author sessions and the Digital Poster format (through Glogster). Here is an example of a digital poster. We had a few last-minute cancellations, which presented some challenges for implementing these new programmatic features, but there is now plenty of time to work out the kinks before NAMLE 2013 in Los Angeles.

The conference keynote addresses were incredible and diverse. Thank you, Mohammed Bilal, Douglas Rushkoff, and Madeline DiNonno. They are all spectacular at what they do. I also have to give major digital knuckle bumps to my NAMLE Board colleagues who gave 110%—especially Deb Parker (SLEM3), Rhys Daunic (The Media Spot), Ethan Delevan (Seattle Country Day), Annelise Wunerlich (ITVS), and Carol Tizzano (Picture Perfect Productions).

A special thanks to Renee Hobbs (left) for providing clarity
to copyright, meaning to digital and media literacy, and
priviliging the pedagogy. You can find her newest book [here].

I apologize for not getting around to meeting all those presenters whose work I have come to know and appreciate through this conference planning process. Please feel free to connect so we can collaborate in the near future. Let's find ways to continue the conversation about media literacy education: Webinar? Skype Mini-Conference? Illuminate through Elluminate? You get the idea. At the very least, I will look forward to seeing you all again at NAMLE 2013 in Los Angeles. You can also follow me on Twitter @vanessadomine.

Award-Winning Voices of Hope Productions

2011-07-22T20:03:00.001-04:00

While the state of New Jersey may be known for the Turnpike, the Sopranos, and the Jersey Shore, there is a small yet brilliant diamond in the rough that we put on display for all to see at the opening reception of the NAMLE 2011 Conference in Philly on July 22nd. As NAMLE 1st Vice President and this year's Program Chair I was incredibly honored to present the Media Literate Media Award to Voices of Hope Productions, a woman-owned creative services and multimedia production company dedicated to creative and community-based social issues and documentary film-making as a means to educate, engage, empower an entertain while fostering leadership, citizenship and inspiration in adults & youth to make a difference in our society. Their work speaks for itself. It is authentic, altruistic, and the actual purpose of media literacy education. I hope more people catch their vision. What I did not know until this evening was how incredibly passionate and adorable is VOH founder and director, Lori Ersolmaz. [learn more].

Global Visions, Local Connections: Voices in Media Literacy Education

2011-07-10T01:47:00.001-04:00

From July 22-25th the National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) will bring together a chorus of voices from across the world to meet in Philadelphia. You can see from our map of presenters below that media literacy education is a global movement gaining momentum as we speak, text, tweet and connect with one another. We have a robust conference this year that contains something for everyone—whether you are interested in film making, health literacy, news literacy or critical and creative ways to integrate media and technology in your school, church or community curriculum. I hope you come and join us in person or online. There will also be a special conference issue of the Journal of Media Literacy Education published in October 2011.

Countries of Presenters at NAMLE 2011 in Philadelphia July 22-25th

The Fantastic Four Lands in Philly this Month!

2011-07-09T23:52:00.001-04:00

The 6th national conference and 10th anniversary celebration of the National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) will be held July 22-25th in Philadelphia. It's a PD event not to be missed. For the sake of full disclosure, it's important to mention that I currently serve on the NAMLE Board of Directors (1st Vice President) and I am also the 2011 Conference Program Chair. Notwithstanding my vantage point, I can assure you that this will be the most illuminating and entertaining conference you will attend.

Mohammed Bilal
Hip Hop Artist & Diversity Consultant

Douglas Rushkoff
Author, Educator & Documentarian

Madeline Di Nonno
Executive Director
Geena Davis Institute

We strategically selected our site as Philadelphia—centerpiece of an early American history of independence, freedom and brotherly love. This year, you'll hear a chorus of voices from around the world that includes seasoned professionals, empowered students, non-native English speakers, rigorous researchers and skillful practitioners. Four keynote addresses provide an eclectic mix of academic, multicultural, public health and feminist perspectives that will inspire and renew your media literacy education efforts—whether you're a P-12 teacher, community activist or media producer. Just look at this incredible line-up of individual keynotes:

Mohammed Bilal, Hip-hop artist and diversity consultant [watch video].
Douglas Rushkoff, Author, teacher, documentarian [watch video]

Madeline DiNonno, Executive Director of the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media [read interview]

Lynda Bergsma
University of Arizona

Lynda Bergsma moderates a panel of leading researchers: Media Literacy Education to Promote Health: Research and Promising K-12 and Community Applications

Our 14 program strands illustrates the tremendous growth of our field and the vital importance of media literacy education across all facets of life. We offer media and technology demonstrations, program highlights, expert panel discussions, roundtable discussions, digital poster sessions, best pedagogical practices, a youth production camp, award-winning research and author book signings with free give-aways from the NAMLE Marketplace. You'll also be able to use namle.net during and after the conference to navigate sessions, paper summaries, interactive presentations and handouts. The conference experience will also culminate in a special conference issue of the Journal of Media Literacy Education.

Whether you are new or familiar with the field of media literacy education, I invite you download the Core Principles of Media Literacy Education as your global positioning system and to seize every opportunity at NAMLE 2011 to locate your place on the media literacy education map.
[register now]

Can't Afford to Come to NAMLE?

2011-07-05T11:56:00.000-04:00

As the NAMLE 2011 Conference Program Chair, I truly hope all of you P-12 teachers, community leaders and media makers will consider attending the full conference in Philly July 22-25th (Friday through Monday). But I realize in this economy, that may not be possible. So, here's an option that might help keep costs down:

FRIDAY SPECIAL- July 22
This includes a pre-conference workshop in the morning, terrific media demonstrations in the afternoon, the grand opening reception and dance party, and the film festival kick-off. A very full day. And the cost includes your full annual membership to NAMLE.

COST: $145 ($85 registration + $60 membership) OR $105 students ($65 + $40)

Come join us—even for just one day. I promise it will be worth it.

Know a NJ College Student Stressed About Applying for College?

2011-06-30T14:34:00.002-04:00

Greg Woodruff

Sign your student up for college tutoring this summer by one of the best that NJ public education has to offer: Greg Woodruff, 2009 Humanities Teacher of the Year by the NJ Council for the Humanities and one of the winners this year of Montclair's Weston Awards for Teaching. In three 2-hour sessions in August, students will learn how to write their college essays, navigate the application process, and ask for teacher recommendations. I've known Greg for 15 years and students excel under his tutelage. [learn more]

Social Media Revolution 3.0

2011-06-29T21:42:00.001-04:00

Erik Qualman (author of Socialnomics) recently updated his highly popular "Social Media Revolution" video. Digital knuckle bump to him as you watch this data-saturated and thought-provoking beginning to any conversation about modern communications technology. It's an ideal attention-getter to begin any workshop, class or professional development day at home, school or work. Enjoy.

Technotopian View of Schooling

2011-06-27T00:44:00.001-04:00

I have to give Microsoft credit—their billions of dollars and high technology do make for interesting possibilities for schooling professionally and pedagogically for teachers—in addition to expanding learning opportunities for students. But I think something important might be left out of this technotopian vision. After viewing the video, can you identify what is not being taught here? And is this where our hard-earned educational dollars for public education should go? What do you think? To guide your inquiry, download NAMLE's Key Questions to ask of media messages.

Digital Storytelling Workshop—Hollywood Style

2011-06-21T17:20:00.001-04:00

The folks behind the International Family Film Festival in Burbank, California are providing a unique Hollywood-style filmmaking experience next month in Philadelphia as part of the NAMLE 2011 Conference. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, home schooler, or media literacy activist—you can learn how to create a stop motion animation film through integrating several art mediums as the basic storytelling elements. This technique can be easily taught to children as young as 6 and integrated into media projects being created in high school.

Workshop participants will each create an original story, sketch and plan storyboards, shoot and edit the film (including credits and sound track). They provide all cameras, computers and materials! Bring your own portable memory device so you can download and take your completed project with you. When: Friday, July 22nd 9:00-1:00pm. Where: Sheraton Society Hill, Philadelphia, Ballroom E1. Cost: $145 (includes a 1-year membership to NAMLE). [Click here to register] Select "Pre-Conference Only" option.

Geena Davis' Quest for Gender Equity in Film

2011-05-23T17:11:00.002-04:00

Academy Award-winning actress Geena Davis talks with the "PBS NewsHour's" Simon Marks about her quest for gender equity in film at the PBS Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. This interview draws attention to the substantial research (via USC) from the Geena Davis Institute on Gender Equity and also the stunning intellectual and physical beauty of Davis herself. It is important to note that Davis observed that the mere mention of hard data on gender (in)equity in film to studio executives (who have not had gender equity on their radar) was a giant first leap in creating a more equitable media environment.
Digital knuckle bump to you, Ms. Davis.

Watch the full episode. See more PBS NewsHour.

Looking for Digital Media Literacy Resources?

2011-05-05T09:12:00.003-04:00

PBS provides teachers with excellent tools to both create and consume media content. From Arthur's Guide to Media Literacy to FRONTLINE segments on what it means to be a human in a 21st Century digital world—there is something here for everyone. We particularly like how the web site is categorized according to grade level. And if you're up to it, take the quiz on digital media literacy and then look at their 14 things you can do to integrate digital tools and content in your classroom. [learn more]

Building 21st-Century Teachers: An Intentional Pedagogy of Media Literacy Education

2011-04-05T20:37:00.004-04:00

High quality teacher education requires a complex body of knowledge, skills, and dispositions. Media literacy education can (and should be thought of) as an intentional and essential framework in which to catalyze essential knowledge, skills, and dispositions for 21st-century teacher preparation. The multidimensional nature of media literacy education renders it a meaningful framework with which to contextualize the pursuit of technological proficiency, promote pedagogical excellence, and to magnify the democratic ideals and purposes of public education in the United States. You can read more about this proposed framework in the upcoming issue of Action in Teacher Education (Volume 33, Issue 2) pp. 1-12. In this article I also align the National Educational Technology Standards for Teachers, principles of democratic education, and provides sample pedagogical skills essential to media literacy education.

Going Hollywood: Media Literacy Education through Filmmaking

2011-03-21T21:08:00.008-04:00

In March I had the pleasure of attending the International Family Film Festival at Raleigh Studios in Hollywood, CA to moderate a panel of educators and film makers on the topic, "Media literacy: Is it 'good' for us?" I was particularly intrigued by the stories of how young people in Kenya use film to empower themselves and their communities. Thanks to Mercy, Dain and Patrick for a lively discussion—and for their inspiring examples of media literacy education. A special thanks to Chris and Suzanne Shoemaker who invited me to serve on the IFFF Advisory Board. Here's to creating a more media literate world—one film at a time.

L to R: Dr. Domine, Dain Olsen (Media Arts Instructor, Otis College, LA)
and Patrick A. Horton, PhD.

Summer Professional Development Available

2011-03-11T23:03:00.007-05:00

From Standards to Practice
May 16-June 3, 2011 (online only)

Media and Technology Literacies: From Standards to Practice

This online workshop focuses on the construction of standards-based curriculum and supporting uses of technology to achieve educational goals. Participants operationally define the standards and definitions of media literacy and technology literacy from a national (USA) perspective. Participants work together to align and integrate educational standards/goals and media and technology literacies according to the National Educational Technology Standards (ISTE) and relevant state and local standards. Asynchronous and collaborative. Multiple modes of instructor support provided (not a self-paced workshop).

Summer Session (Online) runs July 1-July 15, 2011. Preview 4 Steps to Standards Integration.
[view all workshops]

Media Literacy—Parody as Empowerment

2011-02-22T09:33:00.000-05:00

Many have heard of the 2006 Canadian Dove "Evolution" campaign where the viewer gets to see up close and personal the evolution of a female (through physical and digital enhancement) into what the public sees as a model. If you have not seen this "behind the scenes" approach to media literacy and gendered images, watch it below:

Now look at the social commentary that a group of high school students have layered upon this original. The use of parody—in this case to comment on our distorted and highly manufactured concept of beauty—is a powerful tool for young people to push back those stereotypes that otherwise might be oppressive. Let's not forget that standards for male beauty are also manufactured. Watch this piece of comic relief as it parodies the original commercial:

Knuckle bump to Canadians (and Australians, and Brits) for their decades of pro-media literacy efforts. The United States lags way behind in media literacy education efforts. How ironic for such a culture that is saturated in capitalism.

Show Your Media Literacy

2011-02-22T08:55:00.000-05:00

In case you missed it, the Manitoba Association for Computing Educators (ManACE) created this video in celebration of Media Awareness Week back in 2009. It's a nice piece of eye and ear candy that gets the conversation started about the importance of media literacy. [learn more]

Digital Media—New Learners of the 21st Century (PBS)

2011-02-19T22:59:00.002-05:00

This is a highly thoughtful 1-hour PBS feature of 5 innovative schooling projects in search for the purpose of education in the 21st century. It's important to recognize that digital technologies are merely the means (not the ends) of schooling and ultimately to generate innovative thinkers among young people. It's never been more important in the history of our country to more deeply understand learning (and consequently teaching) and then to create a model of schooling that fits the social, political, economic and intellectual needs of our country now.

Watch the full episode. See more Digital Media - New Learners Of The 21st Century.

Powerful Voices for Kids (& the RH Factor)

2011-02-16T17:31:00.006-05:00

One of my favorite media educators and researchers is Renee Hobbs of the Media Education Lab at Temple University (among other ventures). Her Powerful Voices for Kids project is a Philadelphia school-university partnership that strengthens children's abilities to think for themselves, communicate effectively using technology and to use their "powerful voices" to contribute to the quality of life in their families. Watch this presentation Powerful Voices for Kids: Media Literacy & Technology in Urban Elementary Schools

One Laptop Per Child and the Need for Media Literacy

2011-02-14T17:51:00.007-05:00

This is an interesting examination of the One Laptop Per Child global initiative and the need for a larger framework for understanding technology. It is by Dr. Marcus Leaning at the University of Winchester.

Media Literacy Webinar

2011-02-11T22:38:00.008-05:00

My colleague, Frank Baker, just presented an excellent webinar (courtesy of ASCD) on media literacy basics. He provides a comprehensive overview of media literacy and also has the smoothest Southern twang in his voice that is easy on the ears. Share this with your colleagues.

Intro to Media Literacy—Free download

2011-02-08T09:24:00.001-05:00

The Media Literacy Project (founded by Deirdre Downs and Hugh Downs in 1993) is a nationally recognized leader in media literacy resources and education. Their curricula and action guides are used in many schools and communities and their training programs have inspired thousands of people to think critically and take action. This free download ("Introduction to Media Literacy") is appropriate for ages 11 to adult to discuss different concepts and skills to help build media literacy knowledge. It can be used in schools, community settings, or for professional development trainings.[download now]

International Family Film Festival

2011-01-28T23:30:00.000-05:00

March 16-20, 2011
Burbank, California

The International Family Film Festival (IFFF) recently introduced the International Family Film Institute (IFFI), the organization’s educational and outreach division dedicated to youth. The IFFI fosters a greater understanding of family through the discovery, creation and sharing of quality stories from around the world. In particular, the Institute offers youth educational activities that inspire curiosity, leadership, self-esteem, team building, character development, inquiry about storytelling and the language, media and family literacy arts. Its aim is to empower, challenge and introduce a deeper understanding of the world we share through interactive, projects based learning. [learn more]

How do I teach media literacy?

2011-01-01T15:56:00.000-05:00

The purpose of media literacy education is "to help individuals of all ages develop the habits of inquiry and skills of expression that they need to be critical thinkers, effective communicators and active citizens in today's world." (NAMLE, 2007). The National Association of Media Literacy Education has created a set of Core Principles of Media Literacy Education and a set of Key Questions to guide curriculum.

NAMLE 2011

2010-10-01T23:14:00.000-04:00

National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) convenes every two years to expand the knowledge and practice of media literacy education in the United States. As a membership organization, NAMLE celebrates the increased diversity of voices, technologies and pedagogies that comprise the growing field of media literacy education. Want to submit a proposal? Contact the Conference Program Chair, Vanessa Domine at vdomine at namle dot net.

Heed the Beckon-Ning Call

2010-03-26T01:28:00.001-04:00

The eighth annual Northeast Media Literacy Conference, was held at the University of Connecticut on March 26, 2010. Keynote speakers were Dr. Susan Linn, author, and Director of the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, and Frank Baker, media literacy leader and creator of the online resource, the Media Literacy Clearinghouse. PLAY's Vanessa Domine presented a hands-on workshop titled, Heed the Beckon-Ning Call: Media Literacy Education through Social Networking [download handout]

The ABCs of PLCs

2010-01-06T17:00:00.002-05:00

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) can facilitate, even transform, teachers' understanding of their subject area and pedagogy. At a recent professional development workshop (Classroom Reset 2010: Innovations in Teaching and Learning Conference) Vanessa Domine explored with high school teachers the characteristics of a successful professional learning community. The group explored free social networking tools made especially for educators to keep content and collaboration as the main focus. Participants established their own community and gained strategies for growth and maintenance. [download handout]

NAMLE 2009 Conference Recap

2009-08-04T01:29:00.002-04:00

The National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) Conference was held August 1-4, 2009 in Detroit, Michigan. It was chock full of scholars and practitioners exploring the critical and creative ways to engage in the pedagogy of media literacy education. We mingled with some real media literacy "rock stars." Check out conference highlights including Vanessa Domine's session on Social Networking Among Pre-Service Teachers. [photos & video]

What is Media Literacy Education?

2007-01-27T14:17:00.001-05:00

Media literacy is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate and produce a variety of media texts. Media education refers to the process of teaching media literacy. In the United States alone, there exists many different perspectives on how to media educate youth, but not all of them agree on what extent youth audiences are active participants. PLAY moves beyond a passive approach to media and youth. For the purposes of this project, there are five governing principles of media literacy:

Audiences actively interpret media. Meaning does not reside in the text itself, but is a product of the interaction between text and audience. Audiences interpret meaning based on situational elements such as geography, culture, age, class, gender, time of day, and the context in which they interact with the medium. Various media forms resonate in different ways, depending upon the experiences, values and knowledge that audiences bring to it. Although audiences differ in their perceptions, understandings and reactions to media, the key to media literacy is to educate them to be aware of their own subjectivity as well as the subjectivity of other audiences.

All media are constructions. Media are neither reality nor windows to the world. Instead, they are carefully constructed products—from newspaper headlines to nature documentaries. A media literate person is aware that many decisions are made in the construction of each media product and that even the most realistic images represent someone's interpretation of reality. Media literacy also involves the skill of producing media—so that youth in particular can offer their interpretation of reality.

All media are owned. All media are owned by individuals or institutions that have historical and social contexts that may be concealed from the general public. Institutional elements from production to distribution influence the content as well as audience perceptions of the content. It is important to call attention to the idea that commercial institutions are owned and ultimately operated according to the principles that will generate the highest profit.

All media express values. Media are carefully constructed products that represent a particular view of actual people, places, events, and ideas. The language of newspapers, magazines, television and the internet use shortcuts to meaning through stereotyping—the consequences of which may be oppressive for certain groups of people. Questions to ask of each medium are: "Whose story is told?" "Whose story is left out?" and "To what extent is the representative of reality?"

All media adhere to codes and conventions. Whether it be through editing, narration, sequencing, camera angles, soundtrack or timing—each media form has a language of its own. Magazine editors use different codes and conventions as compared to video producers as compared to web designers. The languages used influence the meaning of the media text.

References
Aufderheide, P. (1992). Proceedings from the National Leadership Conference on Media Literacy. Washington, DC: Aspen Institute.

Tyner, K. (1992). The tale of the elephant: Media education in the United States. In C. Bazalgette, E. Brevort, & J. Savino (Eds.). New directions: Media education worldwide. London: British Film Institute.

Buckingham, D. (1995). Media education: Beyond a defensive approach. Telemedium, 41(3), 10-11.