Module 14: Communication and Information, MIL and Learning
Background and Rationale
This MIL Curriculum resource on media and information literacy (MlL) should be viewed within the broader field of communication and information, as informed by modern learning theories. Teaching and learning are closely related and are integral parts of the communication and information processes. ln fact, neither can be effective without the other (Ndongko, 1985). Educators and learners consciously or unconsciously apply elements of a basic and sometimes complex communication and information processes in the learning spaces.
Instructing and learning are enriched and at the same time can present more challenges when resources from content providers such as mass media (radio, television and newspapers) and digital communications companies are integrated into the learning space. The acquisition of MIL competencies by educators and learners opens up opportunities to enrich the educational environment and promote a more dynamic teaching and learning process.
Educators have been at the forefront of many changes connecting, sustaining, and renewing the knowledge of successive generations. In today’s world, knowledge is distributed across people, machines, and digital networks. lt is people's access to and effective interaction with this distributed knowledge that can strengthen their learning experiences inside and outside the classroom.
The COVlD-19 pandemic has led to a significant increase in online engagement for most people who have access. For instance, many learners have had to depend on online learning or remote learning aided by technology to ensure the continuity of formal education. People will need MIL competencies to maximize the benefits of their online presence beyond the coronavirus crisis. Development and use of online platforms and remote learning content require significant MlL competencies for educators and learners to be discerning about online risks and distractions, while ensuring their right to education. What are some of the research and policy implications for MIL expansion into institutions and MIL for all citizens?
The interaction of educators and learners with content providers such as libraries, archives, museums, media, and digital communications companies can help to create learning environments that highlight education for sustainable development, are pluralistic and democratic, and that also foster open knowledge creation. Awareness of these dynamic forces as acted out in learning spaces brings into focus the cognitive and metacognitive processes identified in learning theories and basic communication and information theories. The term cognitive is derived from the word cognition, which is the process of understanding and acquiring information and knowledge through thought, experiences and other senses.
This module serves as a capstone by drawing on content covered in the earlier modules. It explores links between communication, information and learning (including learning theories), and suggests how MIL can enhance this relationship. It ends with a discussion on managing change in order to foster an enabling environment for MIL.