School libraries are shaping a media-literate generation of the future

Abstract

Modern technologies, along with their benefits, also carry risks for Internet users. Today, anyone can become the author of a publication, image, or even a whole blog and website, and the quality of the materials posted depends on their competencies and goals of publication. Cookies and Internet algorithms automatically collect information about the user, linking the search for information with their interests and prejudices. This isolates the user from information that may not correspond to their existing point of view but is useful for expanding their understanding of the situation. Media literacy is one of the most important competencies of the 21st century. Since December 2022, school librarians in Kazakhstan have participated in the project "Media Literacy for Librarians," with active members of the American Library Association as speakers. There were a total of 8 webinars with the participation of 7000 school librarians. During and after the project, school librarians began to conduct media literacy lessons for students of different ages. These lessons are aimed at providing knowledge about how information technology works, how to strengthen information hygiene, and develop critical thinking skills to distinguish between truth and lies, detect manipulation, disinformation, and hidden propaganda.