How Informal Online Media Literacy Education for Adults Advances Active Listening and Intellectual Humility (Poster 32)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Saturday 5:10 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Student Emotions, Motivation, and Teacher-Student Dynamics

Abstract

Disinformation, conspiracy theories, and propaganda have become large-scale social problems, shaping the way people make decisions. Learning to critically analyze news, information, digital media, and popular culture can benefit all members of society because it can diminish the appeal of us-vs-them persuasive paradigms that rely on activating strong emotions and oversimplifying ideas and information. This research examines the impact of an online dialogue and discussion program for adults. Results show that participants experienced growth in active listening, intellectual humility, and media literacy knowledge and application. When adult education programs include a focus on media literacy active listening, they may help develop knowledge and skills that people can apply to the media they use in everyday life.

Author

• Renee Hobbs, University of Rhode Island