Core Principles of Media Literacy Education

The proliferation of digital media and its diverse messages demands critical interpretation. For this reason, the Just Think with NAMLE is excited to offer students, educators, and parents the Core Principles of Media Literacy Education that encourage everyone to consider the implications and motivations of the images they view and create.

Core Principles (2 page, easy-to-print pdf)

Full Text Core Principles (multi-page pdf)

1. Media Literacy Education requires active inquiry and critical thinking about the messages we receive and create.

2. Media Literacy Education expands the concept of literacy (i.e., reading and writing) to include all forms of media.

3. Media Literacy Education builds and reinforces skills for learners of all ages.
Like print literacy, those skills require integrated, interactive, and repeated practice.

4. Media Literacy Education develops informed, reflective and engaged participants essential for a democratic society.

5. Media Literacy Education recognizes that media are a part of culture and function as agents of socialization.

6. Media Literacy Education affirms that people use their individual skills, beliefs, and experiences to construct their own meanings from media messages.

Critical thought starts with compelling questions. Use the following questions to jump start your thoughts about media.

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