understanding the other through media and digital learning

+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: renee.hobbs@temple.eduPhone: 215 204 3255