In the Age of Social Media
Championing Digital and Media Literacy
In an era when social media shapes how we learn, work, and make sense of the world, engaging with media critically — and creating it responsibly — has become an essential literacy. For over a decade, my work has centered on helping learners make exactly that shift: from passive consumers of digital media to confident, discerning participants in it. The projects below show that commitment in practice — workplace literacy resources, digital-citizenship modules, and collaborative media events — each designed to make critical engagement with media both accessible and genuinely engaging.
Digital Dialogue: Enhancing Workplace Literacy
With a growing awareness of the importance of digital literacy in professional settings, I spearheaded the creation of a series of digital literacy videos and blog posts tailored for our 1200+ employees. These resources focused on promoting best digital practices, enhancing workflow, and fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement. The series became a cornerstone of our digital literacy initiative, offering accessible and practical advice for navigating the digital workplace.
Engaging Digital Citizens
Recognizing the critical need for mindful digital citizenship, I developed comprehensive eLearning modules that were both informative and engaging. Utilizing Articulate Storyline, these modules were enhanced with animated characters and humor, making the learning process enjoyable and effective. The aim was to cultivate a culture of responsible digital engagement, equipping employees with the knowledge and skills to act as informed citizens in the digital domain.
21st Century Multiliteracies and the HEFF
The Hanyang English Film Festival (HEFF) served as a practical application of digital literacy in a creative and collaborative setting. As Chair of the Organizing Committee, I navigated the festival through significant challenges, including budget cuts and reduced incentives. Despite these obstacles, we focused on the intrinsic educational value of the festival, promoting multiliteracies and collaboration. The success of HEFF underscored the importance of digital literacy in fostering engagement and community, ultimately being recognized as an exemplar of digital literacy in action.
Reflecting on a Decade of Advocacy
Across courses, videos, eLearning modules, and festival organization, the through-line has stayed constant: helping people understand and appreciate the role media plays in their lives. These efforts have strengthened individual digital competency while contributing to a broader conversation about the importance of media literacy in an increasingly digital world.
Looking Forward
The work in digital and media literacy advocacy continues to evolve, driven by the rapid pace of technological change and the ever-growing impact of digital media on society. The experiences and lessons learned over the past decade serve as a foundation for future endeavors, with the ultimate aim of empowering individuals to navigate the digital landscape with confidence, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility.