Integrating Media and Information Literacy (MIL) in Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL) in the Philippines: A Policy and Action Agenda
Jose Reuben Q. Alagaran II
Department of Communication, Miriam College, Philippines
UNESCO’s Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Curriculum and Competency Framework (2011) combines two distinct areas, ‘media literacy’ and ‘information literacy’, under one umbrella term — media and information literacy. Media literacy “emphasizes the ability to understand media functions, evaluate how its functions are performed, and rationally engage with media for self-expression” (p. 18). On the other hand, information literacy “emphasizes the importance of access to information and the evaluation and ethical use of such information” (p. 18).
This curriculum and competency framework needs to be examined not only from the point of view of conventional classroom-based education, but also from the perspective of open and distance e-learning (ODeL). ODeL tutors, facilitators, and learners should understand the need for skills in locating and evaluating sources, assessing information, selecting and developing appropriate learning materials, and using tools and resources for facilitating and learning through ODeL. These will enable them to be more responsible, ethical users and creators of messages through the e-learning mode.
This paper outlines a policy and action agenda for integrating MIL in curriculum development, instructional design, materials production, course delivery and instruction, and student support services to ensure a more creative, innovative, learner-centred ODeL system in the Philippines.
Keywords: media and information literacy, information literacy in e-learning