Historical and pedagogical analysis of development of media education

The article deals with the process of formation and development of media education in educational system of USA and Canada. The main historical periods of formation and development of media education in American and Canadian educational systems are determined. The characteristic features of each period are interpreted. Based on socio-economic, cultural and educational development of the two countries the author distinguishes six main periods. After the analysis of the media markets in the two countries the author make a conclusion about their similarity and uniqueness. To similar features we refer changes in the essence of media education in USA and Canada. And it is reflected in the names of the periods. At the same time the duration of the periods is different. In the USA the process of media education formation as a sub brunch of pedagogy preceded its acknowledgment and dissemination. In Canada these processes took place simultaneously. The other principal difference referrers to those who were involved in methodological support of media education. In Canada this development owes school teachers and in USA it was possible due to scientists and researchers' efforts. In general the development of media education underwent either popularization and dissemination or ignoring and lack of finance support.