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Description
The main aim of the project is to equip teachers and youth workers with competencies, resources, materials and skills for the development of children''s media literacy through new and interactive tools.
Within the project, selected youth workers will be trained in key topics related to the media and information literacy – from the sociological to the safety and methodological aspects. Involved youth workers will also participate in a local needs survey based on which the educational methodologies for youth workers will be adjusted (educational outcome). This outcome will be converted into a digital, interactive format that can be easily navigated through by youth workers in their day-to-day work. The methodology will contain both theoretical basis and practical examples of worksheets and will be freely accessible for further use.
In addition, a portal for youth workers will be created containing available Czech and foreign resources on the topic.
On the research and the development of the digital methodology will participate the Norwegian partner Apenhet, experienced in the field of research and digital storytelling.
Summary of project results
The project was pivotal during a period of complex challenges, encompassing not only the pandemic situation in the Czech Republic but also the recent war in Ukraine. These events opened up new complex societal topics, gaining significance, especially in the context of recent elections. Similar to the Czech Republic, the Russian disinformation scene characterizes a high volume of rapidly spreading misinformation with no commitment to objective reality. The project targeted youth in socioeconomically disadvantaged regions facing challenges associated with the shift of the information landscape to online environments.
The project successfully contributed to the creation of sustainable educational programs that will continue to be part of the curriculum for involved entities. The long-term impact is reflected in the methodological tool that emerged from the project. We perceive continuous education in media literacy as a key challenge, along with the ability to respond to the latest developments in the disinformation scene and digital technologies. The lack of available data from regions poses an additional challenge, limiting the planning and implementation of further steps.
In response to these challenges, we have established a network of mutually supportive entities connected with leading experts in the field of media literacy. Simultaneously, we have created a methodological interactive website that will remain available to both formal and informal educators as an interactive tool even after the conclusion of the project.
Within the project, an educational program was developed that covered key competencies in the field of media literacy. Through regular online workshops, the participants of the program were systematically trained. Additionally, individual consultations and mentoring were introduced, aimed at helping participants discuss content and create high-quality educational activities tailored to the needs of the target group – children and youth with whom the program participants worked.
In collaboration with the Norwegian partner, Apenhet, a methodological website was created, containing 10 interactive exercises covering key topics in media literacy. This website serves as a tool for educators and includes validated materials from the project’s experts in the field of media literacy. Each exercise is complemented by methodological aids and recommendations from a renowned expert in the Czech Republic. In this way, educators are provided with comprehensive resources for the effective integration of media literacy topics into teaching. All materials are available in both Czech and English.
The project excellently met and even surpassed its set goals, evident from the high number of participants, successfully implemented activities, and generated outputs. The project combated disinformation, promoted critical thinking, and prevented radicalization, increasing media literacy for 1,144 children through 15 regional organizations. The results of the research conducted through 30 in-depth interviews provided a deeper understanding of the needs and expectations of informal educators. The obtained recommendations offer valuable guidance for further solutions in the area of materials dedicated to the topic of media education for this specific group.
A methodological website, available in both Czech and English, provides users with easy access to interactive educational activities that can be directly utilized in media education. Thus, the project introduces a modern and innovative approach to education.
Media coverage highlighted the project''s role in supporting a democratic society, with press releases issued as part of the project actively contributing to spreading awareness of its significance and benefits in the public sphere. This led to broader awareness of the topics supported by the project and its impact on the local community.
Summary of bilateral results
The collaboration with the partner was very successful. During the study visits, personal professional relationships were established. During the second study visit, goals and milestones for the development of the methodological website were jointly set, ensuring that results would be delivered on time and with the expected quality. Online collaboration was supported by regular video meetings and effective project management, which led to a successful outcome.The partner contributed their knowledge from other projects focused on media literacy, providing inspiration and options for the recommended resource directory. Additionally, the partner provided capacity in the areas of graphic design and programming for the development of the methodological website.The main output of the collaboration was the creation of the methodological website, which included not only the design and development of the page but also its content. The partner actively contributed to delivering content, especially in the area of the resource directory and recommendations for relevant English-language sources. This collaboration allowed the recipients to be inspired by the approach to media literacy education in Norway and to familiarize themselves with the advanced methods used there. These experiences were subsequently shared with Czech participants in the acceleration program, enabling them to build local projects and thus increase the impact of media literacy education among children and youth.