Moving image production and the pedagogical development of media literacy

Abstract

This chapter states the case for the pedagogical value of moving image production in the development of media literacy. In the context of this chapter, the concept of media literacy is extended to encompass not just the ability to critically 'read' media texts but also involves the practices of 'making' media products and artefacts. Drawing on the experiences of two of the authors' involvement with the Bristol Natural History Consortium's Wild Ideas DVD as a case study, this chapter illustrates the pedagogical value of using media technologies to enable the learning of critical abilities, competencies and skills through the active production of media texts. In concluding, we propose that moving image production work not only contributes to the development of media literacy (a valuable life skill in its own right) but also contributes to personal and social development as well as potentially fostering other transferable skills and competencies for employability and citizenship.