understanding the other through media and digital learning
DESCRIPTION
In this presentation, Renee Hobbs summarizes a university-school partnership that explored how media literacy and digital learning can support the development of cultural understanding about the peoples and cultures of the Middle East.TRANSCRIPT
+Understanding the “Other” through Media and Digital Learning
Renee Hobbs
Temple University, Media Education LabRoberts Elementary School, Wayne PA
Kuwait UniversityFunded by a grant from the Alliance of Civilizations
+
Our Approach to Media Literacy
Using Tools &
Technology Resources
Well
Critical Analysis, Reflection
& Ethics
Teamwork&
Problem-Solving
Creativity &
Expression
+Assumptions and goals
Media literacy concepts can support learning about the cultures and peoples of the Middle East
Technology integration activities are more meaningful when connected to authentic texts and audiences
Goal: explore the types of activities that help promote cultural understanding about the Middle East
+Program Components
Planning Meetings with Elementary Educators & One (90 minute) Staff Development Training
Lessons on Visual Stereotypes of the Middle East
Research Activity: Learning about the Countries and Cultures of the Middle East
Film Screening and Visit from Filmmaker: “Santa Claus in Baghdad”
Class Wiki Pages Support Interaction with Students of Kuwait University
Students Produce Short Videos about Life in the United States to Share with Kuwait students
Research: Classroom observations, student work samples, teacher interviews
+Elements of Program Process
Activate prior knowledge about the Middle East Create awareness of inaccuracies in understanding Use inquiry to gain information about cultures Express new knowledge about cultures Strengthen emotional connectedness to the “other” through film and print narratives Strengthen understanding of constructed nature of film Share ideas in civic dialogue using social media tools
+Challenges of the Program
Limited time for staff development Attitudes of staff towards Middle East Media literacy vs technology integration Use of film for media literacy vs moral education Differential technology skills among participants Schedule coordination with Kuwait University
+Conclusion
Disrupting Stereotypes. The lessons encouraged children to recognize the common stereotypes of the peoples and cultures of the Middle East.
Emotional Learning. The use of child-centered narrative supported an emotional connection between children and Middle East people and cultures.
Going Behind the Scenes. The filmmaker visit helped children understand the many choices involved in the filmmaking process.
Connecting to Others. Social interaction between children and students of Kuwait University promoted feelings of empowerment.
+ Media Education Labhttp://mediaeducationlab.com
Contact:
Renee HobbsTemple UniversitySchool of Communication and TheaterMedia Education LabPhiladelphia, PA USAEmail: [email protected]: 215 204 3255