Media Literacy Practises and Experiences in New Zealand

In this study, the concept of media literacy is first analyzed by considering different aspects of various definitions of media literacy. Then, media literacy practices in New Zealand are examined according to the John Pungente’s “Successful Media Literacy Program Criteria”. Media literacy education is given as a separate course in some countries or as subject of a single unit or as an interdisciplinary field. There is no common understanding throughout the world for this education concept. For that reason, this study aims to establish comprehensive guidelines for media literacy education by examining New Zealand, where media literacy has been focused upon uniquely and successfully in regard to its targets, contents and educational situations and evaluation.