Document Type

Article

Publication Title

The Journal of Research on Libraries and Young Adults

Abstract

Information and media literacy are essential for today’s children and teens as they navigate an increasingly saturated information environment. Educators at all levels must seek to communicate and teach the skills that students need to evaluate, understand, and use information in engaging and innovative ways. This paper highlights such an effort by librarians and staff at Florida Institute of Technology in the planning and implementation of a camp called “What We Know: Understanding Media and Its Influence.” The camp was administered by five library staff and attended by ten teens between the ages of 12 and 16. Throughout the camp, staff used campers’ feedback and surveys to gauge the impact of the program. Camper age differences proved to be the biggest challenge to camp success. Overall, 78% of attendees reported that camp was more enjoyable than predicted. Qualitative data gathered through discussion and peer-to-peer interactions indicated that, in general, camp attendees gained increased awareness of problematic issues in media. Future camps will include a more focused age range and more hands-on activities.

Publication Date

12-2016

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