Critical media education : youth media production as a space of creativity for lifelong learning

Abstract

This thesis is a theoretically based critical analysis that aims to explore the effects of media on young people and provide a deeper understanding of the processes of media education associated with critical thinking, creativity, and identity formation through active engagement of youth in digital media production. This critical analysis is informed by the insights from critical social theory (including Frankfurt School’s critical theory and postmodernist thought), and a Whiteheadian perspective in process philosophy for lifelong learning. This research explores the argument towards different views from different assumptions about media effects on young viewers and alternative approaches to media education. This thesis offers a basis upon which to synthesize positive insights from all current media pedagogical approaches into a more cohesive, critical, exploratory, and creative practices of media education. It can potentially offer possibilities in developing critical thinking, critical creativity, and a sense of fulfillment for lifelong learning. The synthesis of this thesis is towards rethinking the creativity as having a vital role in lifelong learning through the creative process of youth media production.