International education consultant and Ladner Rotarian Dr. Avis Glaze gave the following invocation at the February 20, 2024 meeting of the Rotary Club of Ladner.
Recently, with all that is happening around us, I have been preoccupied the issue of media literacy in general and news literacy in particular. This highlights the importance of teaching critical and analytical skills in our schools.
Today's media landscape is a very complex one. There is constant bombardment of information from news outlets fighting for space and a proliferation of information sources. The result? Concerns around misinformation, disinformation and fake news.Some jurisdictions, especially those which face elections this year, are gravely concerned about this issue.
Teens are glued to their screens for more than 8 hours a day, reports show. So much screen time could pose risks - including exposure to toxic misinformation.
There is a need for us to support Rotary's emphasis on literacy development which should include teaching students how:
- adopt a critical eye as consumers of the news;
- read the news and spot what's true and what's not true;
- develop a healthy skepticism so they navigate the information landscape;
- contribute actively to maintaining an informed and resilient democracy.
- adopt a critical eye as consumers of the news;
- read the news and spot what's true and what's not true;
- develop a healthy skepticism so they navigate the information landscape;
- contribute actively to maintaining an informed and resilient democracy.
As Rotarians, we continue to be grateful for food, friends and fellowship.