A media and information literate individual is someone who possesses a set of integrated competencies that enable them to effectively access, analyze, evaluate, create, and use information and media messages responsibly and critically. Such a person can make informed judgments as a user of information and media and can also skillfully produce content. Key characteristics include:
- Critical thinking skills : They analyze and evaluate media content to distinguish credible information from misinformation or bias
- Ability to decode media messages : They understand the techniques and systems behind media messages, which helps them identify influence, bias, and misinformation
- Information literacy : They recognize when information is needed, know how to locate it, evaluate its credibility, and use it ethically to create new knowledge
- Digital literacy : They proficiently use digital tools and platforms to access, manage, and communicate information safely and responsibly
- Ethical and social understanding : They respect others' needs for information and expression, and engage with media and information in a culturally and socially responsible manner
- Responsiveness and adaptability : They adjust communication depending on audience, purpose, and context
In essence, a media and information literate individual is independent, knowledgeable, critical, technology-savvy, and considerate, capable of navigating the complex media landscape to maximize benefits and minimize harm
. This literacy empowers them to participate actively and responsibly in society
