What does it mean to “Be a Media Detective”?
According to a new Pew Research Center survey of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 conducted Sept. 18-Oct. 10, 2024, many teens are as digitally connected as ever. “Most teens use social media and have a smartphone, and nearly half say they’re online almost constantly” (Faverio and Sidoti).
With so many students so connected to social media and the internet, students often struggle with what is real, what to click, what to buy, and what to believe. In this age of online scams and “fake news,” it is crucial that students learn to evaluate the messages they see and hear.
The best way to do that is to teach children to ask questions. That’s what White Ribbon Week and “Be a Media Detective” does. Students learn to look for the clues and T. H. I. N. K.
T – Is it TRUE?
H – HOW does it get my attention?
I – I can choose. Is it a good choice for me?
N – What are they NOT telling me?
K – Do I KNOW who made the message and why?
During this week, students will engage in lunch media walks to practice answering these questions. Be sure to ask them what the lunch activity was each day and what they are learning. If you would like to sign a “Healthy Media Pledge” as a family, click here.
Faverio, Michelle, and Olivia Sidoti. “Teens, Social Media and Technology 2024.” Pew Research Center, 12 Dec. 2024, www.pewresearch.org/internet/2024/12/12/teens-social-media-and-technology-2024/.
Digital Detective information purchased from whiteribbonweek.org
