In addition, those who advocate the development of “critical consciousness” see teachers as cultural workers involved in citizen education where the incorporation of historical critique, critical reflection and social action are embraced while exposing the conformist, passive and disciplining elements in the “hidden curriculum”
This quote resonates deeply with me, as I believe that the role of educators is to prepare students to be active participants in local and global societies. In order to do this, students must be made fluent in social discourse. If one cannot discuss a topic in detail, then they do not fully understand it. They must also be prepared to advocate for political and social change when necessary. Students must also have the critical thinking skills necessary to analyze media messages and discard hidden social and political subtexts. This is where the notion of critical media literacy versus media literacy becomes relevant. Media literacy is inductive and based on pre-conceived notions. Critical media literacy is deductive and allows students to reach their own conclusions. It takes reified notions or assumptions and makes them subjective.
I RESIST. Critical media literacy [Web log message]. Retrieved from http://www.iresist.org/media.html
The following link is an article from 21st Century Schools that supports my belief that critical media literacy is crucial for empowering students to be active and discerning participants in a global community.
http://www.21stcenturyschools.com/Critical_Pedagogy.htm
21st Century Schools. (2010). Critical pedagogy. Retrieved from http://www.21stcenturyschools.com/Critical_Pedagogy.htm
Great connection to another resource Harmony! Those are all powerful quotes and all from some of my favorite educational theorists! You demonstrate a strong understanding of the difference between critical media literacy and media literacy!
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