Media Literacy in Action: Questioning the Media

by Renee Hobbs Professor of Communicatio

Overview

There’s never been a more important time for students to develop media literacy competencies. When students ask critical questions about the media they consume, they develop fundamental knowledge and critical thinking skills that prepare them for life, work, and meaningful citizenship.

Media Literacy in Action addresses learners who are simultaneously active as both creators and consumers of media messages. At the same time, the book recognizes that everyone is vulnerable to media influence because of our dependence on the instant gratification and feelings of connectedness that digital platforms provide. To thrive in a media-saturated society, people need to ask critical questions about what we watch, see, listen to, read, and use. This book gives students those tools.

Key features of the second edition:

• Critical examination of AI technologies, algorithmic personalization, data privacy and surveillance, and the increased global regulation of digital platforms
• Attention to media literacy for empowerment and protection
• Inquiry-oriented approach to learning that cultivates intellectual curiosity and creative expression
• Full-color presentation with figures and photos to increase student engagement

Each chapter includes:

• Media Literacy Trailblazers: Profiles of key thinkers and their theories connect students with the discipline of media literacy
• Media Literacy DISCourse (NEW): Visual representations of media literacy theoretical principles help learners internalize the practice of asking critical questions as they respond to specific media examples
• Learning in Action (NEW): Summary and vocabulary sections combine with Analyze, Create, Reflect, and Act activities to empower students to apply ideas from each chapter.

Supplemental Materials available at www.mlaction.com:

• Students can review key ideas, learn about more Media Literacy Trailblazers, and watch videos aligned with each chapter
• Instructors can access a Teacher’s Guide of best practices, in-class activities, homework, and projects. Also available are chapter summaries, lecture slides, YouTube playlists, and test materials.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781538185988
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	01/02/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	492
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Renee Hobbs is one of the world’s leading authorities on digital and media literacy education and a professor at the University of Rhode Island’s Harrington School of Communication and Media. As a teacher, researcher, activist, and media professional, she has offered programs for educators on four continents and produced some of the leading empirical research on the subject. Hobbs is the author of 12 books and more than 200 scholarly and professional articles. Her work has received awards from professional organizations including the International Communication Association, the Media Ecology Association, the National Association for Media Literacy Education, and others. In collaboration with the Media Education Lab, Hobbs created COURAGEOUS RI, a statewide media literacy program designed to use media literacy and active listening to reduce the fear and hate that leads to violence, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She has spoken at the United Nations and consulted extensively with educators, school leaders, and government officials in Belgium, Brazil, China, Croatia, Lebanon, the Netherlands, Germany, Romania, and many other countries.

Table of Contents

Preface

PART I: UNDERSTANDING MEDIA

Chapter 1 What Is Media Literacy?

Chapter 2 Why Do People Use Media?

Chapter 3 How Do Search Engines Work?

PART II: FORMS AND GENRES

Chapter 4 How Do People Get the News?

Chapter 5 What Is the Difference between Advertising, Public Relations, and Propaganda?

Chapter 6 Why Are We Attracted to Characters and Stories?

PART III: JUDGMENTS ABOUT TASTE, QUALITY, AND TRUST

Chapter 7 Why Do People Prefer Different Kinds of Music, Movies, and TV Shows?

Chapter 8 Who Decides What Makes Media “Good”?

Chapter 9 How Do People Decide Who and What to Trust?

PART III: MEDIA ECONOMICS

Chapter 10 How Do Media Companies Make Money?

Chapter 11 Are Social Media Free?

PART IV: MEDIA EFFECTS

Chapter 12 Why Do People Worry about Stereotypes?

Chapter 13 What are the Benefits and Harms of Using Media?