Item

Visual media literacy and ethics: Images as affordances in the digital public sphere

Author
Mary Angela Bock
Year
2023
Publisher
First Monday
DOI/Link
https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v28i7.13233
Abstract
This article argues for the adoption of an affordance model for media literacy. Media literacy efforts have largely evolved separately from visual literacy programs, neglecting the role of the photographic image in the digital public sphere. The hyper-visuality of media today demands closer attention to visuals in media literacy efforts because individuals cognitively process images differently. Images are more emotionally powerful and memorable than words. For these reasons, visual communication cannot be treated in parallel with words. Conceiving of visuals in media as artifacts used by messengers instead of independent messages supports media literacy’s goals of helping individuals navigate today’s digital environment. While such an approach is not the only way to understand images, the affordance paradigm cultivates discourse that supports media literacy. Rooted in the constructivist paradigm, the affordance frame serves as a bridge between photographic indexicality and contingency.
Language
English
Keywords
Digital Literacy, Media Literacy, Visual Literacy
Tags
Public sphere, Ethical communication

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