Media Literacies

Literacy in general refers to knowledge and ability with regard to a particular subject or skill. The skill often associated with literacy involves language—specifically, the ability to read and write in a particular language. The subject area sometimes associated with literacy involves the humanities, or, more broadly, a liberal arts education. In earlier times, a literate person was someone who could read and write and who was familiar with great works of literature and prominent scientific [Page 500]theories. The concept has evolved to include multiple literacies, but the underlying notions of knowledge and ability remain as key indicators of a particular literacy. This entry first defines media literacy and discusses its relationship to other literacies. The entry then discusses the implications of media literacy for ...