Amid the challenges posed by sponsored posts masquerading as news, conspiracy theories, and the surge in AI-generated content, discerning trustworthy information on our feeds has become increasingly difficult. However, California is taking a proactive step to address this issue, with media literacy set to become a mandatory subject in schools starting next year.
The initiative stems from Assembly Bill 873, urging the state board of education to explore the integration of media literacy lessons into various grade levels and subject areas during the curriculum revision in 2024. California joins a growing cohort of states, including New Jersey, Delaware, and Texas, that have enacted similar legislation, according to Ebonee Otoo, Senior Vice President of Educator Engagement at the nonprofit News Literacy Project.
Otoo expresses enthusiasm about the movement gaining momentum across states and emphasizes California’s commitment to empowering students with the skills to distinguish fact from fiction in the complex information landscape. A notable aspect of the law is its interdisciplinary approach, incorporating media literacy lessons not only into traditional subjects like civics, history, and English but also into mathematics, science, and other disciplines.
Reflecting on the challenges witnessed during the pandemic, Otoo underscores the importance of media literacy in subjects like science, math, and data, where misinformation can have significant consequences. The overarching objective is to equip students with the tools to navigate what Otoo describes as “the most complicated information landscape in human history,” enabling them to actively contribute to the preservation of a functioning democracy.
Otoo emphasizes the responsibility to impart these skills to young people, highlighting the necessity for them to engage in civic life. While acknowledging diverse opinions on policy proposals, she underscores the need for a shared understanding of basic facts to address the country’s most pressing issues. Ultimately, the aim is to prepare young people to play a pivotal role in solving future challenges facing the nation.