Approaches to international media literacy: Cultural habits of thought

Abstract

The media have become so pervasive throughout the globe that the ability to decipher messages conveyed through the media has become a 21st century survival skill. Indeed, in 2011, participants in the First International Forum on Media and Information Literacy (in which the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization – UNESCO – is the lead partner) issued a Declaration, in which they affirmed that Media and Information Literacy is a “fundamental human right.” International Media Literacy focuses on what members of the media literacy community can learn from one another with regard to media literacy principles, concepts, programs, and strategies. Media literacy scholars apply those strategies that most effectively approach the study of media and media presentations in their cultures. Within this context, it can be useful to identify the media literacy principles, concepts, and approaches that are most effective in particular cultures. Further, it can be useful to consider other media literacy approaches that might offer a fresh perspective into that country’s media and media presentations.