Information, Media, and Technology Skills
The abundance of information at one’s fingertips does not itself
create an informed citizenry. Instead, it requires individuals
to develop skills with which to use information effectively.
Information literacy refers to the ability to recognize when
information is needed and how to locate, evaluate, and put
it to proper use. Similarly, it is essential for learners to access,
understand, and where appropriate, filter media bias. According
to P21, media literacy is achieved when a person grasps ethical
issues surrounding the production of media messages and is able
to critique the inclusion or exclusion of opinions and factual
evidence.
The value of technological literacy has been discussed in a variety
of circles from e-learning (Lamb and Callison 2005) to web 2.0
technologies (Greenhow et al. 2009). Not surprisingly, 21st century
learning initiatives, informed by research on how people learn best,
integrate emerging technologies (e.g., smart phones and social
media) and embrace collaborative, participatory experiences.
Emerging research suggests learning content through virtual
environments can be successful. Game-based learning gives
students a chance to acquire and apply knowledge in simulated
game-play. It is an effective instructional tool because it requires
players to immerse themselves in dynamic, information-rich
settings and to be risk-takers who must tackle problems and learn
from both success and failure (McFarlane 2003; Meteri Group
2006).