Build confidence with media literacy with Adult Literacy for Life
International Literacy Day is 8 September and to mark this special date, the Adult Literacy For Life (ALL) Programme Office at SOLAS is raising important awareness about media literacy and why it matters throughout September and October.
What is media literacy and why does it matter?
Information is everywhere and sometimes it can be difficult to judge how accurate or reliable it is. Media Literacy means being able to understand and ask questions about the media we see or hear on the radio, TV, on your phone, and online. It’s about taking the time to stop, think and check the information that you see or hear in the media or online. It helps us to better access services, figure out what’s true, and engage confidently with media and information, and the world around us.
Our world is changing, and it can be hard to keep up. Many of us find it challenging to use a smartphone, navigate social media, or to know if information we see or hear is true or not – whether that’s on the radio, TV, or online – and that’s okay. You’re not alone.
Build confidence with media literacy with three simple steps.
- Learn more about media literacy with Adult Literacy For Life
Want to learn about media literacy and why it matters? Learn more about what it means and how to stay safe in the media and online at adultliteracyforlife.ie/medialiteracy.
Visit this page to learn how to:
- Stop, Think and Check: Understand how to ‘Stop, Think and Check’ when you see or hear information in the media, on your phone, or online.
- Test your media literacy knowledge with a fun quiz; Try a free and fun Whatsapp quiz to find out what you know, or need to know about media literacy.
- Find local media literacy events and supports: Find information about media literacy events and supports available with your local ETB , library or community organisations.
- Understand media literacy by watching an informational video: Watch a short video to learn more about media literacy and why it matters.
- Start a course and build confidence with digital literacy:
In Ireland, 3 in 10 older adults are not using the internet. Almost half of older adults who use the internet need support to improve ‘basic’ digital skills to help them feel confident with technology.
You too can build confidence with digital literacy and media literacy by signing up to a free digital skills course like Age Action’s ‘Getting Started’ course, Vodaphone’s HiDigital course or find information about what supports are available with your local library, NALA, or ETB. It’s a great way to learn how to confidently use your phone, engage with technology safely, and stay connected with your friends, family and community by completing a digital skills course.
- Find your local literacy support service
Need help with improving literacy, media literacy, or digital literacy skills? There are lots of free and friendly courses available in your local area. Find your local service at adultliteracyforlife.ie/free-courses/.
Perhaps someone you know needs some help with reading, writing, maths, financial or digital skills? Visit adultliteracyforlife.ie for more information about where to find support.
