"Critical Media Literacy," by Gainer

In the article, "Critical Media Literacy in Middle School: Exploring the Politics of Representation," Jesse S. Gainer affirms from the start that "it is insufficient to teach students to read and write only with letters and numbers." This is true and I would extend that to say that it is insufficient to teach anyone anything with only letters and numbers. I cite for reference the successful project by PCI Media Impact: telling stories, saving lives.

This program uses storytelling to address political/social issues in schools and the broader community, worldwide, with projects running in Mexico, Rwanda, New York City, St. Lucia, and Ghana, to name several (Media Impact's presence can currently be felt in at least 28 countries). The use of comic books, theater, talk shows, and different forms of media is integral to the heart of Media Impact. The underlying concept is that of "Communication for Behavior Change" and Entertainment-Education, and this change is powered by how much the audience connects to the characters who are going through different 'problems' in the stories told. The work abroad that Media Impact performs is strictly capacity building, working off what materials and resources are already present in the community. Residents are given training, and they adapt the program for their communities.

In New York City, there are pilot programs running in various public schools. See more information here: http://mediaimpact.org/?p=870