My grandpa recently sent me an article from “The Daily B.S.” by Bo Snerdley. When I clicked it, I thought my computer might download a virus.
Despite Snerdley’s obvious personal biases, the article revealed something far more concerning: my grandpa’s lack of media literacy, which made me worry about how many others might fail to recognize its importance. Pursuing a journalism degree exposes me to common pitfalls and teaches me to apply a critical lens when consuming media.
But, as I interact with others who may not be as cautious, I understand how crucial media literacy education becomes. The National Association for Media Literacy Education defines media literacy as “the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create and act using all forms of communication.”
Media literacy equips consumers with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the overwhelming flow of information they encounter daily. The way people consume media has shifted dramatically in recent years; how they access information, where they find it and the platforms they use have all changed.
Media literacy helps people adapt to this evolving landscape, enabling them to make smarter decisions whether reading the news, scrolling through social media or evaluating information in their personal and professional lives. It is not merely about understanding what people read but also questioning and assessing its reliability, bias and purpose.
Stanford professor and researcher Sam Wineburg describes media literacy as something that helps individuals “derive truth from falsehood, bias from reality, and promote values steeped in objectivity instead of emotion.” In a world where information can be manipulated easily, these skills matter both for personal decision-making and the health of democracy.
A critical lens is essential when consuming and decoding media, and asking key questions can help media consumers develop this perspective to assess whether information is accurate and credible.
Who wrote this, and why? An article about a new diet may be written by a health expert but also could come from a sponsored content team working on a weight-loss product. Knowing the author and his or her intent helps clarify potential biases. Is he or she trying to inform, entertain or sell something?
Who funded this, and how does that influence the message? Consider an article about a car model, most likely funded by the automaker. The financial motive behind its creation is key to understanding the possible slant of the content.
What perspectives are included, and what is left out? Political articles can highlight a politician’s achievements while ignoring his or her controversies. Missing details can shape how people perceive the subject. What is omitted is often just as important as what is presented.
What emotional triggers are used? A viral social media post about a protest might use dramatic music or emotional appeals to engage viewers. These techniques often provoke strong emotions and influence actions, such as sharing a post or signing a petition.
When and how was this shared? A piece about a protest might look different if viewed live during the event or analyzed a week later. Context shapes how we interpret a message; does it reinforce or challenge the status quo?
Is this information factual or opinion-based? Consider a headline labeling a political issue as the “third rail.” Checking the source's credibility, whether it is from a reputable news outlet or an obscure blog written by a polarizing right-wing radio host, helps assess the accuracy of the claim.
The digital era transformed how people receive information, but it is up to the individual to decide how they engage with it. Social media algorithms, for example, prioritize content designed to stir emotions or reinforce existing beliefs. Developing the ability to critically engage with mainstream news and social media matters more than ever.
Teaching media literacy protects people from misleading headlines and equips them with the tools to make sense of the complex, often overwhelming flow of information they encounter daily. Media literacy is not just about spotting bias or misinformation in the news it is a skill set that extends to every corner of someone’s digital life.
Abby Waechter is a junior studying strategic communications at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Have something to say? Tweet her @AbbyWaechter.
