Creating a foundation for media literacy education : a content analysis of higher education syllabi.

Abstract

Using a Constructivist theoretical learning approach, this study examines syllabi from higher education media-related departments to develop a uniform foundation for media literacy courses by finding common objectives and creating an ideal syllabus. Findings indicate that although most objectives in the syllabi appeared throughout the literature, future courses should place more emphasis on objectives such as “effects” and “economics.” The results also show a variation between the types of objectives included in the sample syllabi, most notably in the “other” theme. Finally, the study indicates that a total of 16 objectives should be included in media literacy courses.