Insightful Events: Media Literacy Week at IU Columbus Runs from October 28 to November 1.

Unpacking Generative AI and Education: Key Sessions Offered at Media Literacy Week

National Media Literacy Week aims to raise awareness about the significance of media literacy in today’s education. The goal is to highlight how media literacy can empower individuals to evaluate information critically, understand media content, and make informed decisions. Ultimately, it focuses on helping people become more discerning consumers and creators of media.

Indiana University Columbus has organized various events to celebrate National Media Literacy Week, offering in-person and Zoom options. Key discussions will focus on generative AI, the influence of media on elections, and the importance of media literacy in education. Pamela Morris, the event coordinator and associate professor of communication studies at IU Columbus, emphasized the need for everyone to be savvy media consumers, especially during an election year when information sources abound but undoubtedly, education is a powerful tool to combat media bias and misinformation. Individuals from library science, media, higher education, educators, middle and high school students, and anyone interested are invited to participate, whether in person or online.

Donnell Probst, the Deputy Director of the National Association for Media Literacy Education, will lead a session titled "Charting the Course for Media Literacy for All" on October 28 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the IU Columbus Summerville Room and on Zoom. The following day, a panel of media literacy experts, including Dan Krutka and Mardi Schmeichel, will discuss "Watchdogs, Gatekeepers, or Referees? The Media’s Role in Democratic Elections" from 7 to 8:30 p.m. online.

Another session, "Playful Mindset and Gameful Education: Video Games in the Classroom," featuring experts Iglika Ivanova, Terence Govender, and Randall Fujimoto, will take place on October 30 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Zoom. These events, sponsored locally by IU Columbus and nationally by the National Association for Media Literacy Education, aim to highlight the critical role of media literacy education today. For a complete list of events, Zoom links, and registration details, attendees can visit go.iu.edu/8rbj. For further information about Media Literacy Week, individuals can check mlw.namle.org or contact Pamela Morris at pammorri@iu.edu.
 

Editor's Note:

As National Media Literacy Week unfolds, Indiana University Columbus invites the community to engage in crucial discussions about the impact of media in our digital age. A diverse array of events has been planned to foster critical thinking and empower individuals to navigate the complexities of information today. Sessions exploring topics such as "Watchdogs, Gatekeepers, or Referees?" and "Video Games in the Classroom" will highlight the importance of media literacy in education and its role in promoting informed decision-making. Participants will gain valuable insights into evaluating information sources and understanding the media's influence on society. 

Skoobuzz encourages all interested participants, from educators to students, to take advantage of these informative sessions.