UIC Library Faculty Profile: Anna Kozlowska: Teaching

Honors 122: Media and Information Literacy in a Global Context

We live in a media-saturated world that is rapidly changing. The media we consume impacts our daily lives, beliefs, political choices, and market behavior. This course aims to connect local and global issues and teach students about the role of news information and media in democratic societies. Students learn to analyze information critically, look for credible sources, and recognize bias and propaganda. Finally, the substantial part of the course is devoted to active engagement with media for self-expression and democratic participation.

HON 122: Youth Activism in Social Media from a Global Perspective

Generation Z is about to become a powerful voting bloc and economic force of modern societies; however, as the UN 2016 World Youth Report indicates, “young people often feel disenfranchised and have become disillusioned with governing structures incapable of providing them with the opportunities and support they need to progress from youth to adulthood.” Although disappointed with traditional forms of political participation, young people are making their voices heard on social media. This course aims to connect local and global issues concerning young people and teach students about the role of information and media in democratic societies. The course approaches media literacy from a multidisciplinary perspective and introduces students to various social media personalities and campaigns. Students also learn to analyze information critically and consider how race, gender, and geographic location impact media exposure and the potential for a media message to go viral.

HON 122: Media Literacy and Participatory Practices from Across the World: Does the Media Represent You? (created by the students as part of my PAR study)

Traditionally marginalized groups have been misrepresented not only in the media but also in politics. But what happens when these groups channel their voice through digital platforms? In increasing numbers, young people assert their identity and political ideas through TikTok, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, etc. This course “travels” to different regions worldwide, discussing issues concerning participatory politics such as cultural appropriation, discrimination, power relations, and postcolonial legacy. Digital content is analyzed through a media and information literacy lens. This course allows students to discuss the barriers youth face with political participation and dive deeper into their own identity. Students can share their stories and ideas through discussion and other active-learning approaches. In addition, they can submit assignments through videos, written work, posters, infographics, interviews, and other forms. Join us as we strive to dispel assumptions perpetuated by the media and shed light on the stories of youth worldwide.