Exploring the Concept of Media Literacy
The two videos on interviews with Jodie Vance and Julie Smith provided a lot of insight on media literacy. The two media veterans who have had a lot of experience in the media industry show the evolution of media and how different social media has revolutionized the industry since its invention. Jodie Vance speaks to how through social media, she has been able to reach critical people while Julie Smith shows how many public figures have used social media to market themselves to the public or make connections as another extension of the physical networks that they have established. One benefit of engaging with a public space across a media space especially social media is the easier reach and the swiftness of response. However, since many people in positions of power have their social media curated, reaching them over social media or through other forms of media comes with the risk of third-party engagements instead of connecting with the real person.
Additionally, Julie Smith discusses the importance of perception on media. This has two potential risks. Since how a public figure looks is more important that what they have to say, there is a potential of the public falling for the fantasy instead of the actual reality. Julie Smith gives two examples; the FYRE festival where some youth were sold the fantasy when models were used to market the fraudulent event and President Donald Trump, whose voters were sold the fantasy instead of reality. The second challenge affects the public figure who can struggle with how they are presented to the public and consequently how they are perceived. The public can get distracted and lose out on their important message if they do not look the part.
For any individuals, being on social media can bring its share of hateful comments which when not appropriately address can be tarnishing to the person’s image and reputation. Jodie Vance provides a great example of some backlash she received as a female sports broadcaster. She states that she was given good advice to remain true to who she was and not morph herself to any other media personality. She also suggests creating a network of people through the individuals one interacts with in the industry and cultivate these personal relationships.
Julie Smith provides great insight into the importance of media literacy. She states that media is a business and therefore the businesses are not in the industry for ethical obligations but to make money. Therefore, most of what is showed is not what is needed but what is wanted. It is therefore important for viewers and listeners to remain object when they watch news and not get blindsided by the fantasy of the industry.
Lastly, both veterans talk about the importance of a PLN in their respective careers and social networks. A PLN allows for one to be able to connect with others, open up, discuss and get feedback on media. It allows individuals to question what they see, watch and hear and also bounce off each other and have perspective on what they are exposed to in the media.
References
Smith, J. (2021). “EDCI 338 – MEDIA LITERACY with JULIE SMITH.” Youtube, uploaded by MILLER, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=57r3-aEnci0&ab_channel=MILLER
Vance, J. (2021). “Jody Vance – Media Voices.” Youtube, uploaded by MILLER, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-NnpQJdl0A&ab_channel=MILLER
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