Dimensions of Media Education: A Conceptual Framework for Media Pedagogical Activities

Abstract

Media education (German: Medienbildung) has become an important concept of media pedagogy in Germany. First it has been in competition with the concept of media competence, but now both concepts are used in a complementary or coexisting way. In this context media education usually has its focus on processes of obtaining literacy and competence in the field of media. However – the concept of media education only can unfold its potential for practice, reflection and theory if it is conceived and applied in a multidimensional form. Therefore in this article six dimensions of media education are commented: aims, procedures, media use, contents, knowledge and abilities as well as processes of affective-motivational and social-cognitive development. For each dimension various components are described and illustrated. With their components the dimensions represent different and connected aspects of media education. They can serve as a conceptual framework to initiate and to support competent, autonomous, creative and social responsible activities in a world which is to a great deal shaped by media.