Evolution of Traditional and New Media: Impact on Information Literacy

Introduction

The term Information Literacy was first introduced by Paulane Meizer in the 1970s, which is the ability to recognize when information is needed and the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information. Media literacy is a subset of information literacy, which focuses on the understanding and interpretation of information in the media. This article will explore the evolution of traditional to new media in terms of their impact on information literacy.

Traditional Media

Traditional media includes sources such as television, newspapers, and radio. These mediums have been around for decades and have had a significant impact on information literacy. The ability to recognize when information is needed is not an innate skill, but rather something that is taught and learned over time. Traditional media has played a major role in this process. For example, if someone is watching the news on television, they are learning about current events and can recognize when they need more information on a particular topic.

Television

Television has been a major source of information for many people for decades. It is a passive medium, meaning that the information is presented to the viewer, and it often comes with a built-in level of trust. While this can make television a convenient source of information, it also means that viewers are less likely to question the accuracy or reliability of the information presented to them.

Radio

Radio is another traditional medium that has had a significant impact on information literacy. Like television, radio is a passive medium, meaning that the information is presented to the listener, often with a built-in level of trust. However, unlike television, radio is more personal because it is often heard while people are performing other tasks, such as driving or working in their homes. This can lead to a higher degree of engagement with the content, but it also means that listeners may not fully understand or critically evaluate the information they are receiving.

Print Media

Print media, including newspapers and magazines, have also played a role in information literacy. These sources require readers to actively engage with the content, which can help develop critical thinking skills. However, print media can also be biased or incomplete, leading to misinformation or misunderstandings.

Digital Media

With the advent of digital media, the landscape of information consumption has changed dramatically. Digital media includes sources such as social media, blogs, podcasts, and online news sites. Unlike traditional media, digital media is interactive, allowing users to contribute and share content.

Social Media

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube have become major sources of information, particularly among younger generations. While these platforms can serve as valuable tools for sharing information and facilitating discussions, they also present unique challenges when it comes to information literacy. For example, social media algorithms can curate a user's feed, presenting them with information that aligns with their beliefs and interests, potentially creating echo chambers and reinforcing existing biases. Additionally, social media platforms are not regulated in the same way as traditional media, which can result in false or misleading information being spread rapidly and widely.

Blogs and Podcasts

Blogs and podcasts are another form of digital media that can influence information literacy. These sources are often less regulated than traditional media, giving bloggers and podcasters more freedom to express their opinions and ideas. However, this lack of regulation can also lead to inaccuracies, biases, or even intentional misinformation. As a result, those who consume blogs and podcasts must develop strong critical thinking skills to determine the reliability and accuracy of the information they encounter.

Online News Sites

Online news sites have replaced many traditional print media outlets, providing real-time updates on current events and issues. However, just like any other source of information, online news sites must be evaluated for their credibility, bias, and accuracy. Some online news sites may prioritize sensationalism over facts, leading to misinformation or misunderstandings. Others may intentionally spread false information for financial gain. In order to navigate this new digital landscape, individuals need to be able to assess the credibility of the sources they rely upon.

Conclusion

As the world evolves from traditional to new media forms, so too must our approach to information literacy. We must teach ourselves and future generations how to critically evaluate the information we consume, regardless of its source or format. By doing so, we can foster a society where accurate, reliable information thrives and misinformation is recognized and rejected.