2. Ways of examining media Framing: Making sense of the events around us. We use story lines with references/knowledge learned through the culture. Journalists frame their stories. Symbolic annihilation: To be represented in media is a form of power. Absence of representation is absence of power, trivialization, condemnation, marginalization. Intersectionality: We all have several identities—female, male, gay, black, white, deaf, bisexual, etc.
3. Media studies Social construction of reality: We learn through interaction with others what it means to be a member of a certain social group. By being treated a certain way, we learn to accept being treated that way. We learn what it means to be a boy or a girl, a man or a woman. Discourse: Interpretive frameworks to discuss social phenomenon like racism or sexism. Cultural/social identity: We have the sense that we belong to a particular cultural group. Ideology: Deeply held ideas about the way the world ought to be. One ideology, the dominant ideology, is usually accepted by most members of society. Media play a role in perpetuating the dominant ideology.
4. Critical thinking What do I see? What do I think it means? How did it get that way? Is this appropriate/fair/effective? What does this tell me about society? Why do I think what I think?
5. Media literacy Interpreting how people use media in their everyday lives. Understanding complex relationships among audiences and media content Recognizing social and cultural contexts in which media is produced Understanding the commercial nature of media Recognizing the motivations of media producers as well as their ethical concerns and responsibilities
