Enhancing Information and Media Literacy: Evaluating the Impact of Webinars, Workshops, and Masterclasses

Abstract

The focus of the research is on the analysis of the effectiveness of different forms of educational activities in developing youth’s information and media literacy (IML), based on the results of the Ukrainian project “MEDIA & CAPSULES”, implemented within IREX’s “Learn and Discern” initiative. The study compared the impact of webinar sessions, masterclasses, and information and media workshops on three key IML indicators: information literacy, media literacy, and digital security. An empirical pre-post design was used to assess changes in participants’ competencies before and after each type of educational intervention. Statistical analysis revealed that information and media workshops had the strongest overall impact, particularly enhancing media literacy and digital security. Masterclasses were most effective in improving information literacy, while webinars showed moderate improvements across all indicators. The findings highlight the importance of aligning instructional formats with specific educational goals and provide practical implications for educators and curriculum developers working to strengthen youth resilience against misinformation and digital threats.