The past decade has seen innovative approaches to pushing the boundaries of our definition of ‘text.’
This post will explore innovative uses of media, the intention being to provoke a conversation about what it will mean for our students to have media literacy in the decade to come.
A podcast that texts you?
“Once you hit play, you’ll find visual elements like photographs, charts, gifs, and links integrated into the listening experience – all sent in a chat-app-like display. The player is designed for mobile screens – and also works on desktop.” (Read more)
Try Strangebird for yourself, click here.
Your best virtual friend?
“What does it mean to befriend a fictional character? How should you be able to interact with them, and how should they respond to you? And can virtual reality help the process, by immersing you in their world?” (Read more)
An NSA inspired game?
Lit nerds are sure to enjoy this thoughtful commentary on censorship, as told by “Kenty,” one of many characters whose writing is obscured by a “Department of Communication.” (Continue Reading here)
Preview the game through this article in Wired.
Music video as change-agent?
“Inspired by the #BlackLivesMatter movement, the video accesses your webcam and plays you the song at the same time as displaying the names and faces of victims of racial injustice. If you look away from the screen, the camera notices, and the song stops. A really simple idea, executed to devastating effect.” (full text here)
Start the powerful experience here.
“Life is Strange is a five-part adventure game in which players assume the role of Max Caulfield, a photography student who discovers she can rewind time. The game was previously released on consoles and PC in 2015 and garnered critical acclaim for its handling of tense topics like teen suicide; the choices players make determine how the story unfolds.” (read more here)