After successfully completing the media literacy camp “Combating Disinformation through Education” TechCamp Ohrid 2023, a team of teachers from five primary schools in the Republic of North Macedonia, after receiving a grant, began implementing the project “Developing and Testing a Media Literacy Curriculum” implemented by the Center for Innovation and Digital Education together with the United States Embassy in North Macedonia and the team from TechCamp of the U.S. State Department from Washington. The schools involved in this project are: “Petar Pop Arsov” Elementary School – Karposh, Skopje; “Blaze Koneski” Elementary School – Prilep; “Hristijan Todorovski Karposh” Elementary School – Rankovce; “Dimitar Miladinov” Elementary School – Centar, Skopje; and “Marko Cepenkov” Elementary School – Zelenikovo, Skopje.
The media literacy program in primary education is designed to enhance students’ skills for critical thinking and analysis of media content, with the aim of creating informed and responsible digital citizens. Besides focusing on understanding media bias and persuasion techniques, the program also encourages students to think critically about the ethical aspects of media production and journalism. Students will learn how to recognize and verify facts, understand the influence of media on public opinion and politics, and express themselves creatively through digital storytelling.
The program includes practical activities such as creating multimedia projects, videos, and podcasts, which allow students to apply their knowledge in real scenarios. Debates and discussions are also encouraged on freedom of expression, access to information, and the balance between freedom of speech and responsible use of media. By participating in campaigns for digital activism and exploring online communities, students become part of a larger digital community and learn how to contribute to social change.
As ultimate outcomes, the program aims to create aware and critical thinkers who will be able to recognize and address the challenges of the digital era, protect their personal data, and actively participate in digital society. Students will be prepared to recognize and address misinformation and disinformation, understand and combat cyber violence, and build a positive body image and diversity in the media. This program aims to encourage students to become active participants and creators of media content, not just passive consumers.
During the implementation of the activities, a website for the project will be launched – www.nasmedium.edu.mk, where resources and best practices for implementing the program in primary schools will be posted.
