In this fast world, where nearly everything requires technology intervention, media isn’t any different. Apart from traditional media, the reach of new and powerful media has exploded over the past few years. The said new media- digital.
A recent study showed that children between the ages of 2–8 spend an average of 2 hours per day with digital media, whereas children aged between 8–12 spend approximately 5 hours daily. The numbers increase as we find that adolescents over 12 spend an average of 7–9 hours per day engaging with the same. Though we can’t prevent the new form of media from making its impact, we can ensure that the ones accessing it are conscientious.
In an era of abundant information, media literacy helps children and students comprehend the complexities of the media landscape.
It is crucial to be able to identify relevant information and evaluate information resources. By fostering media literacy skills in students, they are empowered to become discerning, informed, and responsible media consumers and producers. These skills are vital for their personal growth, academic success, and active participation in a media-saturated society. Therefore, there is a need for these programs to be included in their curriculum.
Bridging the gap
Agastya has always been at the forefront when it comes to structuring hands-on education plans for students.
It is prevalent how underprivileged students face the wrath of a powerful media presence all around them, as it is hard to obtain the latest resources that help them otherwise. With its motive to focus on underserved students, Agastya launched a MediaArts Lab on its campus in Andhra Pradesh that introduces various forms of media arts, including filmmaking, photography, animation, editing, and digital storytelling, while ensuring that the students become responsible media consumers and producers. The lab caters to the students in the surrounding areas, motivating them to bring their stories forth. In 12 weeks, students acquire the skills necessary to responsibly use and produce digital media, which are encouraged to be displayed at Agastya’s art and creativity fair, called the Kala Kootami.
The main objective of this initiative is to bridge the digital divide by offering media education and empowering underserved youth. The program helps these students amplify their voices leading them to communicate their unique expressions, stories, and perspectives to a broader audience.
The profound impact of this initiative motivated the organization to transcend geographical boundaries and provide media education to students far and near.
Agastya launched Dhwani, their media-on-a-bike program equipped with efficient media kits and handled by dedicated instructors. These bikes reach where the MediaArts Lab can’t and allow these youngsters to explore their creative potential.
With the ever-changing world comes the responsibility to embrace the change and adjust to it accordingly. Agastya prepares children to be ready to take any challenge at any point in their future and excel at it. We at Agastya believe it is important to be aware of the ubiquitous technology defining our way of life today and tomorrow. Introducing media programs to students has been a positive transformative force in their learning journey, and Agastya couldn’t be more proud.
Take a look at what the students at the MediaArts lab created here!
