Baker

=Frank Baker =

Frank W. Baker, best known for his work involving media literacy, graduated from the University of Georgia, ABJ, Journalism. Baker has a rich background in television news and educational administration which makes him a popular consultant and speaker on the subject of 21st century literacy skills. His website, Media Literacy Clearinghouse, assists K-12 teachers learn more about media literacy, incorporate media into their classroom instruction, etc. Baker reminds us that students tend to believe everything they see, hear, and read on TV, the internet, and in print. His main objective is to show students what goes on behind the scenes to create media, thereby encouraging them to think critically about the media messages they receive. Unfortunately, most teachers feel they need to teach to the 'tests', and these tests do not address media literacy for the most part. He feels that the new teachers will be the ones to use media literacy in their classroom instruction, because they are more comfortable with our young people's media.

I agree with Baker's comments about media messages, but I also know adults who tend to believe everything they see and hear. We must encourage young people to stop and think about what they hear. Media has such a huge influence on this country, even going so far as to sway public opinion during political elections.

 The video clip below is an interview with Frank Baker and Andrew Smith, Media Literacy Professor, conducted by Jill Fulk for Mixed Media. This video was provided by YouTube.com. media type="youtube" key="oFQicsmXf9A" height="295" width="480" kss