By John Pungente, S.J.

A study of media literacy around the world shows that there are nine factors that appear to be crucial to the successful development of media literacy in secondary schools.

1. Media literacy, like other innovative programs, must be a grass-roots movement. Teachers need to take the initiative in lobbying for its inclusion in the curriculum.
   
   
2. Educational authorities must give clear support to such programs by mandating the teaching of Media Studies within the curriculum; establishing guidelines and resource books; ensuring that curricula are developed; and making certain materials available.
   
   
3. Faculties of education must hire staff capable of training future teachers in this area. There should also be academic support from tertiary institutions in the writing of curricula and in sustained consultation.
   
   
4. In-service training at the school district level must be an integral part of program implementation.
   
   
5. School districts need consultants who have expertise in media literacy, and who will establish communication networks.
   
   
6. Suitable textbooks and audio-visual materials, which are relevant to the country and/or area, must be available.
   
   
7. A support organization must be established for the purposes of workshops, conferences, dissemination of newsletters, and developing curriculum units. Such a professional organization must cut across school boards and districts to involve a cross-section of people interested in media literacy.
   
   
8. There must be appropriate evaluation instruments suitable to the unique attributes of Media Studies.
   
   
9. Because media literacy involves such a diversity of skills and expertise, there must be collaboration between teachers, parents, researchers and media professionals.