Establishes the "Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Act"
The prospective impact of HB1513 on state laws includes the introduction of structured media education policies within public schools. The pilot program will not only address topics such as news content literacy, visual literacy, and digital fluency but also provide guidance on social media usage and the importance of cybersecurity. This educational framework is aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills to navigate an increasingly digital landscape and discern credible information from misinformation—which is critical in today’s media-saturated environment.
House Bill 1513, also known as the Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Act, proposes to amend Chapter 161 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by adding a new section concerning a pilot program aimed at enhancing media literacy and critical thinking skills among students. The bill mandates the establishment of a Media Literacy and Critical Thinking Pilot Program to be implemented during the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years. The department of elementary and secondary education is tasked with selecting diverse school districts to participate in this initiative, which will serve as a testing ground for effective strategies in teaching media literacy in classrooms.
Points of contention surrounding HB1513 are likely to arise from varying perspectives on media education and its implementation. Supporters hail the bill as a significant step towards preparing students for the complexities of modern information consumption, fostering critical thinking and responsible digital citizenship. However, critics may voice concerns regarding curriculum standardization and a perceived overreach in how media literacy is integrated into educational frameworks. Additionally, debates may emerge about the definitions of media literacy itself and the effectiveness of the proposed pilot program in achieving its intended outcomes.