A State-by-State Status of Media Literacy Education Laws for K–12 Schools
Photo by Taylor Flowe on Unsplash
Media Literacy Now
Media messages have powerful shaping effects on individuals and society, influencing how we think, feel, and behave. These effects are further exaggerated by our constant inundation with media messages. With so many sources of information, we need the skills to find reliable and credible information to help make decisions for ourselves, our families, and our communities.
The barriers to media access and production have lessened, so people of all ages, geographies, and economic status are producing and distributing media. Social media, in particular, has benefited us with more opportunities for social connection, education, entertainment, and exchange of ideas. It has also given content creators a direct and often unmoderated link to our youth, putting their physical and mental well-being at risk.
Media literacy is modern-day literacy. Simply teaching students to read is insufficient in a world where they can read, view, and listen to content produced by anyone, including AI. An Education Week Research Center survey in 2023 found that 77% of K-12 educators surveyed said they are not prepared to teach students “the skills they need to be successful in an AI-powered world.” Media literacy is an essential life skill that, once learned, can be applied to any content, including AI-generated content.
Media literacy education continues to be a nonpartisan, nonpolitical issue with champions across the political spectrum. Legislation has been sponsored by members of both parties, and most legislation that passes earns votes from both parties. Our elected leaders recognize that, regardless of political persuasion or background, anyone can be vulnerable to manipulative information in all its forms.
This report documents state progress and informs and inspires advocates—national, state, and local policymakers, educators, parents, and other concerned citizens—to continue to push for policy and implementation. MORE