Media literacy is one of the greatest challenges in contemporary education. This study aims to analyze how students in initial teacher training perceive the influence of media during their childhood and adolescence. The research involved 103 higher education students, 56 from degree courses in Pedagogy (Brazil) and 47 from the Master's education field (Portugal). Findings reveal that 67% of students perceive a high media influence on body image, especially with negative consequences. Brazilian students (75%) perceive this influence more than the Portuguese (58,70%). Media exerted significant sway over game choices, clothing, entertainment, consumption habits, and future aspirations. Concerning personality and attitudes, 49% of Brazilians perceive high influence from the media, and only 17.39% of Portuguese students have this perception. 62% of Brazilian students answered that their media habits led to risks and troubles. Among the Portuguese, this perception represented 52% of their responses. The Brazilians highlighted the risks of self-image disorders, anxiety, depression, game addiction, difficulties in social relations, excessive concern about people’s opinions, and sexual abuse. Portuguese students reported problems with self-image, emotional instability, internet addictions, fear of being bullied, and anxiety about people’s judgment. Regarding the effects of media on their academic lives, 50% of Brazilian students reported problems due to excessive time spent using digital devices as opposed to 21,05% of Portuguese. Students also reported positive experiences and learnings resulting from their media habits. We concluded that self-awareness about this subject can help future teachers promote critical thinking about digital media.

Authors:
Claudia Prioste, Sao Paulo State University, Brazil
Maria Filomena Teixeira, Escola Superior de Educação do Instituto Politécnico de Coimbra, Portugal

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Cláudia Prioste is an Associated Professor of Educational Psychology Department at São Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil.

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