And a Telegram Channel for media literacy.
There was great enthusiasm at the meeting dedicated to Media Literacy organised on June 27 by Belgian partner EAVI [see news: Volunteers for Media Literacy]. A heterogeneous group of European students participated in the meeting. The students, all of whom are enthusiastic about conscientious communication in the digital era, participated in Project e-EngAGEd (Intergenerational Digital Engagement), funded by the European Commission.
At the meeting, students exchanged and debated their experiences as senior citizen coaches. The students, who come from different backgrounds, were able to exchange ideas and compare their knowledge in an open and constructive atmosphere. Indeed, interesting reflections emerged on the role of media in modern society, on the importance of developing critical thinking skills to interpret information, and the need to contrast on-line disinformation.
The Creation of a European Network on Telegram
A key moment of the event was the presentation of the new Telegram channel dedicated to media literacy. Developed by the participants who wished to create a virtual environment to share content and allow constant debate, the channel represents an important step ahead in the diffusion of media culture amongst youth. The channel will allow users to publish articles, videos, infographics, and other useful material on digital communications to promote a more conscientious media culture
A Commitment to the Future
The organisers were enthusiastic about the success of the initiative and confirmed their commitment to pursue awareness-raising and training activities for media literacy. This represents an important starting point for the creation of an active, media-savvy youth network to contrast on-line disinformation. The network will serve as a precious tool for sharing content and debate, as well as marking the growing interest of youth towards this fundamental issue. Their commitment is an encouraging signal for the future. Their active participation and enthusiasm are the basis for developing a more informed, conscientious, and responsible use of media by society.
Project e-EngAGEd is implemented in Italy by the Fondazione Mondo Digitale that for over 25 years has been promoting digital, functional, and media literacy through the intergenerational learning methodology by involving schools and elderly centres [see: Grandparents on the Internet]. This promotes a more conscientious use of ITC tools, contrasting disinformation and promoting the recognition of fake news.
