Hawaii House Bill HR48

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/9/22
• Refer: 3/14/22
• Report Pass: 4/7/22
• Passed: 4/7/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Establish Programs And Educational Opportunities To Increase Media Literacy And Promote Digital Citizenship.

Impact

The proposed programs would target students from kindergarten through grade twelve, advocating for the incorporation of media literacy and digital citizenship instruction across all curriculum areas. By equipping students with these critical competencies, HR48 seeks to ensure that they can safely navigate the digital landscape and make responsible decisions in their online interactions. This reflects a growing acknowledgment of the challenges posed by misinformation and the importance of digital savvy in contemporary society.

Summary

House Resolution 48 (HR48) requests the Department of Education of Hawaii to establish programs and educational opportunities aimed at increasing media literacy and promoting digital citizenship among students. It emphasizes the necessity of these skills as students increasingly rely on digital devices for learning and communication, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution recognizes that mastering media literacy enables students to analyze, evaluate, and create media content, fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Contention

While HR48 is largely seen as a proactive measure in education, there may be discussions around how best to implement these programs. Concerns could arise regarding the adequacy of resources for such educational initiatives, and whether existing educational infrastructure can support the effective delivery of these programs. Additionally, any discrepancy in the adoption of media literacy standards across different schools might lead to varied outcomes, potentially sparking debates on educational equity and access.