In the process of research, I have significantly expanded my ability to access and analyze media messages as well as to use the power of information to communicate and make a difference in the world. In turn, people who lack media literacy might lure others to abuse and misuse their internet access and critical thinking skills. Prior to the research, I was not aware of the media platforms’ ability to air contradicting news or opinions about issues. Furthermore, it can be argued that international media has higher levels of professionalism and impartiality when it comes to events and global problems as compared to local media. For example, if there were a security breach, there would most probably be a different reaction from international and local media platforms and customers. I was also not aware that consumers had a right to sue media companies for carelessly exposing data like names, ages, religion, or nationality to the public. Although those pieces of data can seem insignificant, such personal information, when publicly exposed without one’s knowledge, can be used to mislead and take advantage of innocent victims.
Ultimately, the project has changed how I react to and perceive different media. I started to be more selective and critical of the content I consume and, moreover, I am now equipped with various tools and methods for identifying credible sources from fake ones. The research has also made me aware of my rights as a social media consumer. There are a lot of violations that can and must be persecuted, including suing spammers, abusers, cyber criminals, and even Facebook itself in case of a breach. Owing to the obtained media literacy knowledge, I can now utilize media platforms to expand my knowledge and develop positively. In particular, if a piece of information is only presented by one media source, it is most likely either a fake or worth further research to ensure that the information is relevant.
With regard to media literacy support, there are several global organizations that were chosen to carry out this duty. They are responsible for creating materials and crucial resources that assist educators in implementing media literacy programs. Specifically, Common Sense Media operates under the theme of ‘better education’. It intends to support and promote the publication of media literacy materials that are educative to students online. On the other side of the spectrum, the Centre of News Literacy controls how the media airs news. It collaborates with governments to develop legislation that prevents the production of what is considered fake and toxic news. In turn, UNESCO supports the production and development of media literacy with an emphasis on critical thinking and choosing wisely what one click. The Centre of News Literacy strives to enhance policymakers, educators, media professionals, and youth organizations to formulate national media information literacy policies. UNESCO does not only support the policy-making professions mentioned above; it funds them too.
With respect to UNESCO and the Centre for News Literacy are the organizations that work on ideas and projects related to digital privacy issues. Together they aim to protect online consumers from media breaches, cybercrimes, and toxic and fake content. Furthermore, if one considers being involved with media literacy-supporting organizations, one should consider joining those organizations as an active member. They will then be allowed to participate in programs and campaigns supporting media literacy projects. There are many other ways interested parties can apply to be media literacy agents in their communities where they can assist in highlighting the importance of digital literacy locally. The same agents can provide guidance and information to students in schools on managing their personas online and avoiding plagiarism, as well as provide an authentic environment for practice in various local institutions. Consequently, the problem of digital media illiteracy can be dealt with on many social levels at the same time.
For my capstone project, the contact information I will provide is the Facebook website, the site’s owner Mark Zuckerberg and all subscribers to be the audience. Users would only be able to identify and demonstrate what they understand about the Facebook breach issue on this platform. The website enables the subscribers to interact, share experiences and feelings, ask questions, and even share their opinions about the subject. The Facebook breach case is a global issue affecting many international media consumers; however, regular people can and must be forewarned to be forearmed. Specifically, youngsters who are only starting to use social media should be supported and navigated by their community, school and family with the use of educational seminars and courses. The same can be said about the elderly – there can be a social program allocating media literate and well-versed in digital technologies teens to old people who are willing to learn and adopt new skills. Finally, in order to ensure the widest coverage of the agenda possible, the government should invest in social campaigns that would inform the population about the latest updates in digital privacy and potential scam schemes.