ITP 543 - Multimeda Literacy Instruction

(Cr: 3)

Expanding the definition of reading to include cultural, as well as written, texts, this course is designed to explore current research in the teaching of media literacy so that educators can help students become informed and critical consumers and producers of mass media and technology. The evolution of reading follows closely the progress in the development of publishing/printing and communication technology. The course will also provide an opportunity for teachers to learn about how older and newer forms of media work, how they produce meaning, how they are organized and how they construct reality. The course will also provide educators with the opportunity to create multimedia products and give hands-on training how to use current hardware, software and information systems to teach critical viewing skills to students of all grade levels. Hyperbolic books, reading walls, eBooks, and electronic paper will also be examined. Participants in this course will be challenged to explore current issues and through regarding the various teaching approaches to media literacy; inquiry models, critical information skills development, as well as the assessment of student media work. This course is designed to encourage cooperation and collaboration among participants. Activities, content, and materials are related to the current and relevant Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks.