Celebrating Achievement: Reflections on the International Media Literacy Award and Conference Experience

Receiving the Marieli Rowe Innovation in Media Literacy Education Award for my ELELE project was a profound honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication poured into our academic writing project started in Azerbabiajan in 2016. Presented at the conference in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores, on June 27-28, 2024, my study, “Algorithmic Social Justice through Participatory Action Research: Media Binds or Blinds?”, captured the essence of our collective efforts to explore and address the pressing issues of media literacy and social justice in the digital age.

Key Takeaways:

The Impact of Participatory Action Research: The conference provided a rich platform to delve into the nuances of participatory action research (PAR). Through my presentation, it was evident that engaging communities directly in research processes fosters a deeper understanding and more impactful solutions. The discussions highlighted how PAR empowers participants, giving them a voice in shaping the research that affects their lives. This approach is crucial for addressing algorithmic biases and promoting social justice.

Algorithmic Social Justice: The concept of algorithmic social justice resonated strongly with attendees. Our research emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in algorithmic systems. By analyzing the ways in which media can either bind communities together or blind them to injustices, we shed light on the critical role of media literacy in fostering an equitable digital landscape. Presentations at the conference echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of understanding the impact of generative AI, such as Chatbots, on young people’s media practices and gratifications. This was explored in the study by Tavares and Campos (2024). Additionally, the role of algorithms in journalism and the need for enhanced algorithmic literacy among journalists were examined by Pinto-Martinho (2024). These insights highlight the ongoing efforts to integrate ethical considerations and social justice into the evolving digital and media landscape.

Cultural, Natural, and Historical Richness of the Azores: The conference’s location in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores, added an enriching dimension to the experience. The Azores’ cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and historical significance provided an inspiring backdrop for our discussions. The local cuisine was a delightful exploration of flavors, enhancing the overall conference experience.

Engaging Speakers: The keynote addresses were particularly impactful, offering fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. The speakers’ expertise and passion for media literacy and social justice energized the audience, sparking meaningful conversations and collaborations. Their insights underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and global cooperation in tackling media literacy challenges.

Presentations Focused on AI and Algorithms:

Navigating the Future of Media Literacy: Exploring the Impact of Generative AI-Sacred Heart University (USA): Taciane Batista: The roundtable discussed how generative AI is transforming information dissemination and content creation, emphasizing its educational impact and related concerns. Participants explored the relationship between media literacy and AI, highlighting its importance for a more informed digital future.

Uses and Gratifications of Chatbot Generators Amongst Young People in Portugal-Portuguese Catholic University I Research Centre for Communication and Culture – CECC (PORTUGAL): Sandra Borges Tavares and Ioli Campos: This study explored how young people use and benefit from Chatbots like ChatGPT, aiming to improve media literacy practices. A survey of youths aged 11-26 analyzed their usage, practices, and gratifications, considering various socio-demographic factors.

Teaching Teachers and Tots the Ins and Outs of Algorithms and AI- Toronto District School Board and Association for Media Literacy (CANADA): Diana Maliszewski: The presentation reviewed how large language models (AI) are integrated into teaching, using an elementary teacher’s inquiry to explain algorithm functions. It also covered the educator’s experience in the Media Qualification course on AI.

From Bylines to Bytes: Algorithmic Perceptions and Practices in Portuguese Journalism as a Foundation for Enhancing Informed Algorithmic Literacy- Centro de Investigação e Estudos de Sociologia (CIES)/ISCTE (PORTUGAL): Ana Pinto-Martinho: The presentation examined algorithms’ influence on journalism, focusing on how new technologies shape public-media relations and gatekeeping. It aimed to improve algorithmic literacy among journalists through educational initiatives and industry practices.

Recognition and Motivation:

Being honored with the Marieli Rowe Innovation in Media Literacy Education Award was not only a personal achievement but also a recognition of the collaborative efforts of everyone involved in the ELELE project. This acknowledgment motivates us to continue our work with renewed vigor, aiming to further our understanding and impact in the field of media literacy.

Reflection:

Reflecting on the conference and the award, I am filled with gratitude and inspiration. The opportunity to present our research to a diverse and engaged audience was invaluable. The feedback and discussions that followed were instrumental in refining our ideas and identifying new directions for future research.

The conference reinforced the importance of media literacy as a cornerstone for social justice in our increasingly digital world. It highlighted the power of participatory action research in driving meaningful change and the necessity of addressing algorithmic biases to create a fairer society. Presentations such as those by Tavares and Campos (2024), Batista (2024), Maliszewski (2024), and Pinto-Martinho (2024) offered critical insights into the evolving intersection of AI and media literacy.

Moreover, the experience in the Azores was a reminder of the beauty and richness of our world, both culturally and naturally. It was a testament to the importance of integrating diverse perspectives and environments into our academic and professional journeys.

As we move forward, the connections made and the insights gained from this conference will undoubtedly shape our ongoing efforts. The recognition from the International Media Literacy Award serves as a catalyst for continued exploration and advocacy in the realm of media literacy and social justice.

Relevant Resources:

Visit Portugal  https://www.visitportugal.com/en/destinos/acores

Participatory Action Research Method https://www.participatorymethods.org/

Algorithmic Justice League https://www.ajl.org/

References:

Batista, T. (2024). Navigating the Future of Media Literacy: Exploring the Impact of Generative AI. Presented at the 5th International Media Literacy Research Symposium.

Tavares, S. B., & Campos, I. (2024). Uses and Gratifications of Chatbot Generators Amongst Young People in Portugal. Presented at the 5th International Media Literacy Research Symposium.

Maliszewski, D. (2024). Teaching Teachers and Tots the Ins and Outs of Algorithms and AI. Presented at the 5th International Media Literacy Research Symposium.

Pinto-Martinho, A. (2024). From Bylines to Bytes: Algorithmic Perceptions and Practices in Portuguese Journalism as a Foundation for Enhancing Informed Algorithmic Literacy. Presented at the 5th International Media Literacy Research Symposium.