Analysis of Media Literacy Education and Its Impact on Critical Thinking Development

Abstract

The rapid expansion of media in contemporary society has made media literacy an essential skill, closely tied to the development of critical thinking. This narrative review examines the impact of media literacy education on enhancing critical thinking abilities. Through a descriptive analysis of existing studies and literature, this article explores how media literacy education fosters critical analysis, evaluation of information, and independent thinking. The findings indicate that media literacy, as a multidimensional skill, equips individuals to critically engage with media messages, enhancing their ability to analyze content and resist manipulative influences. However, challenges such as the lack of cohesive educational programs and cultural resistance limit the effectiveness of media literacy education. The article also discusses the importance of integrating culturally relevant media literacy education to strengthen critical thinking. The conclusion offers recommendations for improving media literacy education, emphasizing interactive teaching methods and the need for further research in this area.