Increasingly, information that shapes our understanding of the world is being generated and distributed by Artificial Intelligence (AI), an anonymous, technologically based neural network machine learning model that employs ChatGPT to assimilate content. ChatGPT is a large language model developed by OpenAI, based on the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) … [Read more...] about Media Literacy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Algorithms
Developing Agency with Virtual Kindergarten Students via GamePlay and Design
Abstract This case study used traditional games to engage 4- and 5-year-old students learning online during the 2021-22 school year. The theme of the unit was on decision-making and agency. Learners were exposed to the algorithmic nature of certain board games traditionally geared to younger children. They increased the agency involved in these games by designing the board … [Read more...] about Developing Agency with Virtual Kindergarten Students via GamePlay and Design
Reflections on Living with a Journal Topic for a Year: The Human-Algorithmic Question: A Media Literacy Education Exploration
A Letter from Karen Ambrosh, Managing Editor of The Journal of Media Literacy In January of 2022, Belinha, Melda and I began the conversation of how we would build the next journal issue around Algorithms and Artificial Intelligence. Understanding that algorithms are the building blocks to machine learning and artificial intelligence was the first step. Often these terms are … [Read more...] about Reflections on Living with a Journal Topic for a Year: The Human-Algorithmic Question: A Media Literacy Education Exploration
The Prevalence of Artificial Intelligence, Surveillance Capitalism, Disinformation, and Biased Algorithms Amplify the Need for Critical Skills Applied to Media
Abstract Algorithm-driven technologies are transforming our world. Digital algorithms possess the epistemological algorithmic authority to shape, reinforce, and limit society by determining what we see and do not. While some public and private efforts exist to mitigate the harmful effects of these powerful digital technologies, few measures exist to prepare K-12 students for … [Read more...] about The Prevalence of Artificial Intelligence, Surveillance Capitalism, Disinformation, and Biased Algorithms Amplify the Need for Critical Skills Applied to Media
Reimagining Critical Literacy in the Age of the Algorithm
Abstract Algorithms are playing an ever-increasing role in the way that we understand and interact with our world. This paper provides an overview of Artificial Intelligence technologies, explores the promise of algorithms as well as the issues and considers the implications of algorithms on education and literacy practices. Keywords Algorithms, Literacy, AI, Artificial … [Read more...] about Reimagining Critical Literacy in the Age of the Algorithm
Teaching Algorithmic Literacy within a Media Literacy Program
Abstract The prevalence of algorithms in daily life and the growing role of algorithms in societal decision making and governance has led to a call for teaching algorithmic literacy as a specific part of media and digital literacy. Several researchers have recently attempted to define algorithmic literacy and proposed scales to measure algorithmic knowledge; initial results … [Read more...] about Teaching Algorithmic Literacy within a Media Literacy Program
The Ecology of Algorithmic Literacy: Extending Practices Beyond Representational Media Literacy
Abstract The significant effect of algorithms on media consumption requires new literacy practices that extend beyond representational media literacy. In this case study, I evaluate traditional media and information literacy instruction in a library setting and argue for the inclusion of algorithmic literacy, which is an essential and foundational skill for source … [Read more...] about The Ecology of Algorithmic Literacy: Extending Practices Beyond Representational Media Literacy
Algorithms and Climate: An Ecomedia Literacy Perspective
Abstract Drawing on examples of Bitcoin and climate disinformation, this article demonstrates why Big Tech algorithms have a significant environmental impact and how media literacy educators can respond. Big Tech algorithms reinforce the economic models of surveillance and carbon capitalism, which are dependent on two forms of extractivism: data harvesting and resource … [Read more...] about Algorithms and Climate: An Ecomedia Literacy Perspective
Lifelong Learning Culture Demands “Multidimensional Literacy”
Some generations grew up hearing from their parents that if they chose to pursue a career in Medicine or Law, they would carry the "burden" of studying for the rest of their lives. Times have changed; nowadays it must not be considered a “burden.” Today, lifelong learning is the watchword for any citizen and for the development of nations; moreover, it cannot be seen as a … [Read more...] about Lifelong Learning Culture Demands “Multidimensional Literacy”
A Function of Today’s World: Social Media
For most of us, our worlds today function around social media from the time we wake up in the morning until the time we go to sleep at night, and this impacts our day to day lives. We see constant images from our cell phones, laptops, and television all persuading and manipulating us. Because of this persuasion and manipulation from the media industry, we must ask ourselves, … [Read more...] about A Function of Today’s World: Social Media