Digital Literacy for Women & Girls

SPECIAL REPORT ON Digital Literacy for Women & Girls

2011 Alliance For Women in Media Foundation Board of Directors

Chair Valerie K. Blackburn CBS Broadcasting, Inc. Los Angeles, CA

Chair-Elect/Vice Chair Kay G. Olin Local Focus Radio Atlanta, GA

Treasurer Kristen Welch Discovery Communications, Inc. Silver Spring, MD

Treasurer-Elect Sarah Foss Lift Industries, LLC Richmond, VA

Immediate Past Chair Sylvia L. Strobel, Esq. Alliance for Community Media McLean, VA

Directors

Christina Anderson National Cable & Telecommunications Association Washington, DC

Lisa C. Dollinger San Antonio, TX Increasing Digital Michelle Duke National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation Washington, DC Opportunity for Women Carol Grothem Campbell Mithun/Compass Point Media Minneapolis, MN By Erin M. Fuller, CAE

Carol Hanley Arbitron, Inc. n 1995, Nelson Mandela said that “In the twenty-first century, Chicago, IL the capacity to communicate will almost certainly be a key

Jonelle Henry human right. Eliminating the distinction between the infor- C-SPAN Washington, DC I mation-rich and information-poor is also critical to elimi-

Laurie Kahn nating economic and other inequalities…and to improve the life of Media Staffing Network all humanity.” Scottsdale, AZ Sadly we are not there yet, and it’s too often women who are short- Cornelia Koehl Harpo, Inc. changed when it come to access to communications, information, Chicago, IL and technology in particular. The Alliance for Women in Media

Bridget Leininger Foundation (AWMF) issues this Special Report to shine a light on digital literacy, with CNN Atlanta, GA a particular focus on media. This Special Report addresses the gender-based knowledge

Bonnie Press divide, with a specific focus on girls, women and workforce training. In absolute terms, New York, NY women have less access to and use information and communications technologies less

Heidi Raphael than men. As a result, a stereotype has been developed that women are rather techno- Greater Media, Inc. Braintree, MA phobic, have less interest in, and are less capable using technology. One set of opinions and explanations for why this is ranges from to the types of toys that children play Deborah J. Salons, Esq. Drinker Biddle & Reath with—dolls vs. video games—to software and technology design. Washington, DC Contrary to those kinds of claims, careful and broad-based statistical tests in 25 dif- Keisha Sutton-James ICBC Broadcast Holdings, Inc. ferent countries have revealed that the reason why fewer women access and use digital New York, NY media is a direct result of their unfavorable conditions with respect to employment,

Jennifer Zeidman Bloch education and income. Therefore, women have and use less digital media not because Google New York, NY they are women per se, but because social practice provides them with less employment, less education and less income, which again leads to less digital media access and usage. When controlling for these variables, women turn out to be more active users of digital tools than men. In other words, the fact of being a woman contributes positively to using digital media. Women, traditionally thought of as being better communicators than men, seem to have a natural proximity with these new tools for communication. So a different way to view a “digital-gender-divide” is as a “digital-gender-opportunity”

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 1 Alliance For Women in Media Foundation Honorary Trustees

David J. Barrett President & CEO for women. If women are provided with digital tools, it represents a tangible opportunity Hearst Television Inc.

for women to tackle longstanding challenges of gender inequalities, including access to Pierre C. Bouvard SVP employment, income, education and health services. TRA, Inc. “The Right Audience” We also know that that once digital media penetration reaches almost universal access Mark Gray (above two-thirds of society), the digital divide with reference to President Katz Radio Group gender is becoming less and less attenuated, and even turns around. Carol Hanley The U.S. Department of Commerce showed, between 2001 and Chief Sales Officer 2004, women used the Internet by one percent more than men. Arbitron, Inc.

2009 Census data suggests that the gender divide in the U.S. has 73% Ted Harbert Chairman become nearly nonexistent; 73% of female citizens three years and of female citizens NBC Broadcasting older could access the Internet from their home, compared to 74% three years and John Hogan of males. Additionally, 68.8% of females three years and older were older could access CEO Clear Channel Radio able to access the Internet from some location (either within their the Internet Erik Logan household or outside), compared to 67.9% of males. Similarly, in from their home, President China, between 1997 and 2002 the percentage of Internet users compared to Harpo Studios

who are women rose from 12% to 39%. 74% of males. Abbe Raven President & CEO So we are using it—but are we controlling what is now, essentially, A&E Television Networks the means of production? A Miami University team of researchers Peter H. Smyth found that girls may avoid science, technology, engineering, and President/CEO Greater Media, Inc. mathematics (STEM) careers because they are “perceived as less Sir Howard Stringer likely than careers in other fields to fulfill communal goals (e.g., Chairman & CEO working with or helping other people),” according to the abstract in Sony Corporation of America 69% Psychological Science, the journal of the Association for Psychological Dennis Swanson of females three President of Science. So we like to update our status on Facebook, but we view Station Operations the actual creation of Facebook, or a search engine, or an app to be years and older were Fox Television Stations the opposite of “Living Social”—a solitary career that is unfulfilling. able to access the Lauren Zalaznick Internet from some Chairman Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said earlier this year that “Equal NBCUniversal Entertainment & Digital location compared Networks and Integrated Media rights for women and girls is the unfinished business of the 21st century.” So we need to ask ourselves: how are we contributing to to 68% of males.

getting that important, essential work done? AWMF developed this Publisher Special Report not only to explore how women and girls can harness Alliance for Women in Media FOUNDATION the power of technology, but to inspire them to achieve the digital literacy, technical 1760 Old Meadow Road, Suite 500 prowess, and clear vision necessary to influence the development and use of informa- McLean, VA 22102 703.506.3290 • 703.506.3266 fax tion and communications technologies. We appreciate your support of the Alliance for www.allwomeninmedia.org Women in Media Foundation, your interest in this topic, and your own commitment President to seek ways to ensure women and girls have equal access to what have become essen- Erin M. Fuller, FASAE, CAE [email protected] tial tools for professional and personal success, engagement, and digital citizenship. Executive Vice President AMY LOTZ, CAE Thanks to our partners at AT&T for supporting the digital publication of this special report. [email protected]

COORDINATOR Erin M. Fuller, CAE, serves as president of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation. KATE NISWANDER Follow Erin on Twitter: @erinmfuller [email protected]

Editor andy schwarz [email protected]

URL: LinkedIn: managing editor www.allwomeninmedia.org Alliance for Women in Media Kate O’Donnell [email protected]

Advertising Sales Facebook: YouTube: Elizabeth Johnson [email protected] Alliance for Women in Media allwomeninmedia’s Channel cover design, layout and production Moon Design Twitter: Delicious: @AllWomeninMedia www.delicious.com/ allwomeninmedia

2 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY 2011 Special Report on Digital Literacy for Women & Girls

4 The Power of Digital Literacy 14 House Rules for for Moms Digitally Literate Girls Moms using social media have unprecedented Providing parents with a set of guidelines for the connections, communities—and influence. entire household’s digital success. By Ms. Twixt By Kelly Day & Gayle Trotter 5 Reaching Students in the Digital Age 15 Providing Opportunity through Tools, techniques and engagement at the touch Digital Literacy Initiatives of a finger. By Kelli Campbell How one technology company is focused on bring change through innovation. By Beth 6 The Next Big Digital Breakthrough Adcock Shiroishi Examining the when, where and why of the technological landscape. By Sarah Foss 16 Honey, Your Digital Life is Calling Think fast. Write fast. Answer immediately. Can 9 Students Receive New Outlook you keep up? By Jeanne Wolf on Digital Literacy Programs Promoting Critical Learning to be aware of and make the most of 18 digital opportunities. By Kate Coates & Rikki Jo Thinking: Applying Digital Literacy Holmes to Journalism and Media Education The Four Essential Components Digital literacy emerges as a critical component 10 of news and media literacy education. of Digital Literacy By Janet Liao How to ensure our children have the skills to thrive in the 21st century. 21 What It Means to Be a Woman Who Uses Social Media Girl Scouts of the USA Tackles 12 Women think and learn differently than men—so Online Safety and Cyberbullying women should use social media differently than A century-old organization has reemerged as a men. By Lena West leader in issues that impact the healthy growth and development of girls. By Laurie Westley 22 Wendy Aylsworth: Leading the Technology Inspired Girls: From Bully to Leader 13 An illuminating conversation with an executive Workshops teach girls to use technology in a who is leading the way for women in technology. safe and meaningful way. By Lisa Nicole Bell By Andy Schwarz

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 3 The Power of Digital Literacy for Moms

BY KELLY DAY Moms using social media have unprecedented connections, communities—and influence.

Over the last ten years, digital literacy and fluency in social media have empowered mothers through the ability to share and connect on social media platforms. Online communities, formed for support and information sharing around a range of topics, have shattered geographic bar- riers between moms, as well as the barri- ers between moms as consumers and the brands they support. Communities of Parents Social media Ogives moms the power to connect other women outside of their immediate circle of friends and family for a whole host of reasons. In addition to sharing tips and advice and personal experiences with par- enthood, moms inundated with choices about products and services can easily digest the numerous options available to them with input from their networks and online communities. Online communities of other moms from diverse geographic and A blog provides a constructive, mendation from a personal review blog. demographic backgrounds can provide per- respectful forum for readers, (NDP Group, “Social Media Moms: How spectives on a range of parenting issues that and bloggers to learn from Networking Impacts Purchasing Behav- might be missing from one’s physical com- each other and make more ior”). Faced with a multitude of product munity. TLC’s Parentables blog, for example, educated decisions. choices—from Boppy pillows to burping connects readers to a diverse group of blog- cloths—and a laundry list of decisions to gers who write about topics from home- make when raising a child, women have schooling to childhood cancer to how to The Power of Persuasion From getting become more empowered by their con- pick a paint color. The bloggers may not mashed peas out of bibs to family friendly nections to social media, and have also always agree with each other, but the blog movie picks, moms turn to one another for become better equipped to make educated provides a constructive, respectful forum advice based on experience. And almost decisions. for readers and bloggers to learn from each half of social media moms say that they Highly Sought-After Consumers The other and make more educated decisions. have made purchases based on a recom- ability to share on social media platforms

4 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY has turned moms into smart, savvy consumers, often with networks of followers who trust their recommendations. As a result, marketers have been forced to develop Reaching smart, savvy pitches (and products) to satisfy the network of women with whom they actively seek to engage. En masse, social media moms are giving women a seat at the conference room table—even Students in if it’s all from the comfort of their laptops and smartphones. The numbers are powerful: 90% of moms are online (compared to 76% of women) (eMarketer, Understand- the Digital Age ing How New Moms Share). Brands wisely recognize the huge impact moms in the digital space can have on their reputations, BY KELLI CAMPBELL and are now actively courting the digital mom seal of approval. Tools, techniques and Transparency Vocal moms on social media platforms make it difficult for engagement at the brands and agencies to get away with bad touch of a finger. pitching or, even worse, a poor product. We’ve all witnessed the fallout from a blog post about a shoddy product or rude mar- keter, as negative posts make their way Today’s students are very much at home in an and teachers are challenged to spend as around the blogosphere. Companies are on electronic world, having grown up emailing, much time on instruction as possible. So the hook for their products, as well as their texting and surfing the Internet. And increas- when a student asks a question like “How outreach methods, and must work hard ingly, educators are turning to educational did Madeline Albright become so success- to stay on the good side of this massive technology in order to engage these students. ful?” or “What does a Maasai tribe woman network of consumers. Brands with Twitter For example, large touch screens that work wear?,” a library of digital media like Dis- accounts and Facebook fan pages must with projectors and comput- covery Education can help be transparent about their products and ers—called interactive white- No matter answer through engaging responsive to their critics, as their custom- boards, or “action boards”—are what methods content that makes students ers’ complaints are now visible on very replacing chalkboards in many teachers use to want to learn even more. Dis- public platforms. classrooms. With this technol- engage today’s covery Education produces Creating a Strong Online Reputation To Togy, teachers and students are several products like Dis- be an effective mom in social media, cred- able to view and interact with students, high- covery Education stream- ibility and reputation are key. As mentioned digital media presentations and quality digital ing and Discovery Educa- above, endorsing quality brands makes all control computer applications content is tion Science Techbook, the the difference in making recommendations with the touch of a finger. critical. in-classroom digital video- that people trust. Creating a positive online Educators are also increas- based learning resources sci- persona, by being tasteful, thoughtful and ingly using podcasts to share lectures, in- entifically proven to increase academic smart about posts and other content also terviews, discussions, and assignments achievement. contribute to a strong online reputation. with students at any time. They can also The benefit of digital learning is having Writing about topics and issues that you be a tool for publishing student-generated material that is current and relevant. When care about passionately will make you a content. Even smartphones are being used the scientific community determined a few more genuine, persuasive communicator. to improve student achievement. In one years ago that Pluto was no longer a planet, Finally, working constructively (and trans- recent experiment, 9th and 10th grade math all the hard-copy media libraries and all the parently) with brands will increase your students were given smartphones equipped textbooks referencing the solar system were social media currency among the compa- with special programs to help with their instantly outdated. With a digital library nies willing to put resources into reaching algebra studies. The study found that the hosted online, content changes can be made this key demographic. students using the phones performed 25 quickly and seamlessly, making sure students percent better on the end-of-year exam than and educators have the most up-to-date Kelly Day is Executive students without the devices. information. Vice President and General No matter what methods teachers and Manager of Digital administrators use to engage today’s stu- Kelli Campbell is Senior Media and Commerce for dents, high-quality digital content is criti- Vice President of Discovery Discovery Communications. cal. Today’s classrooms are dynamic places, Education.

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 5 The Next Big Digital Breakthrough

BY sarah foss Examining the when, where and why of the technological landscape.

When I attended the final session at AWM’s erate user of technology—across both per- Symposium on Digital Literacy for Women The AWMF Symposium on Digital sonal and work applications. Like many of and Girls, I had, like many, a preconceived Literacy for Women & Girls was held us in the room, they tote their “brain” and/ notion of what I would be my takeaways. It Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at the or “lifeline” of a smartphone everywhere. was one of those sessions that had a gran- Chicago Tribune Building. Additional digital accoutrements included: diose title (to keep folks after lunch), top an e-reader, a very old MP3 player (couldn’t tier talent (with a broad base of experience), figure out how to transfer the files to an and a big headline that could be plastered is one of those digital executives who iTouch), an iPad, multiple laptops, and apps across any of today’s magazines. really has built entire brands and cam- that ranged from business travel “godsends” I was wrong. paigns for the largest of international to games for kids at home. Whether email, The speakers? Moderated by Frank Gal- business on the backbone of digital social media or device, though, there was Wlagher, executive director of Cable in the technologies. 100% consensus: they do not mix their Classroom, these heavy-hitters were from a The question? What is the next big thing personal and work usage and devices. (If cross-section of the media landscape: in the digital world? We assumed this all- they do, it is for an unique reason!) ● Randa Minkarah, senior vice president inclusive problem-statement would also But, did Weinstein, the president of a of revenue and business development, cover: digital business, really say she only has Fisher Communications. Minkarah is ● What are trends in technology today? TWO devices? Hmmm…this panel was building the digital business for Fisher ● How do these affect women and girls getting interesting already! across a variety of platforms for this differently? More than halfway through the one-hour not-so-traditional-anymore media ● What are the benefits of this next big panel, we were still discussing usage, devices, company. thing? and the state of the current digital world. ● Dr. Nicol Turner-Lee, vice president Gallagher wanted a baseline for today. How were we going to get to the future— and director of the media & technol- Of course, to best speak about the future, when we are still discussing the present? ogy institute, Joint Center for Politi- it would be helpful for the audience if we Then, the light bulb went off. We were cal and Economic Studies, spends her understood each speaker’s view of the discussing the next big thing! Control. time understanding and researching present. He started, then, with the seem- Technology is so pervasive now that the trends that either are about digital—or ingly innocuous question: What devices do only way to harness its power and manage residual impact from/with digital. you have, and how do you classify your use it (without it managing us) is through ● Lisa Weinstein, president, global digital of technology today? control. Each of the highly-experienced and search, Starcom MediaVest Group, Each categorized herself as a light to mod- digital experts on the panel were sharing

Technology is so pervasive now that the only way to harness its power and manage it (without it managing us) is through control.

6 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY During the AWMF Symposium on Digital Literacy for Women & Girls, Randa Minkarah, Dr. Nicol Turner-Lee and Lisa Weinstein participate in the panel “The Next Big Thing in the Digital World.” Some symposium attendees were surprised by the direction this discussion took. business statistics, industry research, and ditional media world to a digital one. But, people and businesses behave is still radi- personal anecdotes that helped shine light Fisher Communications felt it important to cally different as most apply their own inter- on the growing opportunities as well as share this knowledge with the traditional pretation of opportunities and risks. And, no risks and frustrations that we, as a digital team. Their philosophy was to harness the surprise, this behavior is highly influenced society, have with digital technologies. These relationships and traditional media experi- by generational differences. experts were sharing insights into how to ence of her team, and teach the digital part. When Fisher Communications wanted to better grapple with the complete control— Turner-Lee stated that our society—and create a digital innovation team, Minkarah or complete lack of control—that we have world—is “…moving from the social web approached her digital natives: the Milleni- with digital. to the exchange web.” Knowledge is the als. Their understanding of the digital world Control—whether for digital or not—of only way to find how to harness the op- was so different than most of the manage- course, requires three key tenets: knowledge, portunities and avoid the pitfalls of this ment team’s that they literally provided a understanding and choice. new “exchange world.” Assuming that the whiteboard, Mountain Dew, and left the To have digital literacy requires each digital platforms will go through a tradi- room. Media in their digital universe had participant to actively seek knowledge to tional maturation phase (like past media) different impact and meaning on their lives; help sort through the multitude of digital is unrealistic. The digital world changes too thus, they came up with ideas that she— options. And, what is right for one person quickly. Each of us must take responsibil- and others—never would have imagined. isn’t for another. Managing businesses, ac- ity for soliciting knowledge and knowing Her premise was to build new services and cording to the panelists, is altogether dif- where to find information. products for the next generation of media ferent! Minkarah shared that it took a large To be digitally literate assumes that one consumers—and it worked. amount of training and knowledge distri- will not just find the facts, but seek deeper “Social media,” said Weinstein, “is not a bution to move her sales team from a tra- meaning, impact, and understanding. How media channel. It goes through every part

Being digitally literate enables each individual and business to make appropriate decisions around opportunity, risk and consequences.

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 7 of your business.” According to Weinstein, there is a fundamental shift in understanding for how businesses need to view digital environments. “We’ve come from an age of one-way communication where companies controlled their brands,” she said. Now, in the digital era, most clients understand that the digital universe offers two-way communication with their consumers; it is these consumers that now, in effect, Finally, choice. Being digitally literate enables each individual and business to make appropriate decisions around opportunity, risk, and consequences. Once an individual or business has knowledge and understanding, only then can each make good choices about the use of technology. Each panelist admitted that they look at a candidate’s social media and online presence. It’s a mistake, they reminded the audience, to assume that the personal Google+, impact on how any person makes choices connection to gaining control of our digital LinkedIn or Facebook pages will not impact about safety, security, and sharing. use and technology. Being wired or unwired the hiring process. (So think twice about Of course, two of the highlighted “next assumes that one can be in a business envi- discussing your last employer online…) big things” were all about access and choice. ronment or active in the community and have Facebook was an easy target for highlight- Minkarah showed the audience how her that choice. It became clear from the panelists ing good choices. According to Weinstein, smartphone became a television receiver that this choice doesn’t reflect reality. We are 8% of all digital dollars this year will be spent with an over-the-top (OTT) antenna. She in a digital world. That’s the fact. on Facebook.” Your personal information shared how she can catch her favorite pro- But, we do have options. Turner-Lee re- is providing a platform for highly targeted grams anywhere with this coming service alizes that how she views the digital world advertising. The more you share, the more provided by local television broadcasters. is completely different than her children targeted (and valuable) are the ads. Your per- Weinstein said that the new-new Silicon (who can navigate quickly anywhere!). But, sonal information, in most cases, is being sold Valley catch phrase “SoLoMo” is where the her goal is to help them understand how back to the advertisers. Making the choice to money is—or will be going. Private equity it impacts them to make the best choices. control your own information is a compli- firms are investing in almost any business Minkarah has a simple philosophy: every- cated job on Facebook. Constantly changing that has a model of “social, local and mobile.” thing online about her needs to be able to their rules, it is the best example of how one There is an attraction to the many revenue- pass the “HR test.” Her brand is something must stay on top of knowledge, understand- generating opportunities from connecting she guards fiercely—and thus, her choices ing, and actively managing choices. consumers and businesses in socially engag- reflect this. All of the panelists agreed that they do ing, locally relevant, and one-the-go ways. And, Weinstein? Suddenly the fact that not personally use geo-location services like And, while this will provide a multitude of she only has two devices made a lot more FourSquare, but navigation and mapping? conveniences for the modern consumer— sense. Bring it on. Turner-Lee stated that this digital there are risks and consequences as well. breakthrough is where much of the regu- Of course, all of this talk about and around Sarah Foss is CEO of Lift lation is focusing. It’s a perfect storm of control led to an important question. To plug Industries, a business trans- privacy and access; there are a number of or unplug? Is there a way to tackle that ques- formation consultancy for safety concerns for those who announce tion? Yes, if one realizes that we do have a media and technology com- where they are at any given time. For in- number of choices around how we consume, panies. She is also a moder- stance, it’s not just a far-fetched paranoia engage, and distribute information in an ate user of technology, has five devices, to imagine a stalker finding patterns in a overly saturated information world. and would rather lose her wallet than her young woman’s whereabouts given constant So we determined that the next big thing smartphone. Foss serves as the Treasurer- updates online. This, potentially, has great in the digital world is our need, desire, and Elect on the AWMF Board of Directors. We determined that the next big thing in the digital world is our need, desire, and connection to gaining control of our digital use and technology.

8 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY Students Receive New Outlook on Digital Literacy

BY KATE COATES & RIKKI JO HOLMES Learning to be aware of and make the most of digital opportunities.

As students walking into the Alliance for said: “We are all learning this together.” Women in Media Foundation’s Sympo- We can’t be afraid of this new technology sium on Digital Literacy on September 13 and what may come in the future, because in Chicago, we didn’t know quite what there will always be new developments to expect. We knew it would be a great and ideas. There is always room for these networking experience; however, beyond new ideas and what better way than to that we were still unsure of how this would have it come from young women such as really relate to us as students. But it turned ourselves? out to be five hours filled with interesting It was inspiring to also have so many insights from panelists and great lessons people in the room willing to speak with us to be used in our everyday lives. and be so open with answering the numer- AIt’s amazing to us that we are still faced ous questions we had. We truly look up to with this concept of gender division. As Members of the AWM Central Michigan University these women—and men—as role models both women and students, we are saddened Student Chapter contributed the youth perspective and feel so lucky to be a part of such a sup- and gained valuable career advice at the AWMF by this phobia that women can’t handle portive and encouraging group. We walked Symposium on Digital Literacy for Women & Girls. technology as well as men, and we want to away from this event knowing that it’s ok see this change! We believe AWMF Presi- to ask questions and to always be open to dent Erin Fuller’s message at the beginning During the second session, we really got learning new things. Even something as of the conference should be something all a wake-up call on how important it is to simple as keeping our own last names was women should ask themselves in order to build a good reputation. We never realized something that never crossed our mind, see this change: “The question isn’t what how vital it is to build name awareness but is something to be considered. are we going to do, it’s what aren’t we going through technology, which will ultimately There was such great advice directed to do?” As young women looking to go help build our reputation before meeting towards us students throughout the day into the media world soon, it’s up to us to a future employer face-to-face. and we really took to heart everything that change people’s concept of women, and Growing up in this digital generation, was said during the AWMF Symposium on the only way to do that is to prove them we are constantly seeing how social media Digital Literacy. wrong with our success. such as Facebook and Twitter are playing It was brought to our attention that a huge role in both our lives and careers. Kate Coates and women today are looked at more as com- Students, as well as professionals, are now Rikki Jo Holmes municators rather than creators. We women going to these media sites to stay informed are members of need to be out there creating technology, and about what is happening around them and the AWM Central not just consuming it, as Dr. Terry Steinbach it’s something that will continue to develop Michigan University pointed out. We realized that we need to as we start our careers in the real world. Student Chapter Executive Board They can step up and bring more awareness of digital But probably the biggest thing that we all be reached at [email protected] and opportunities for women such as ourselves. need to remember is what Randa Minkarah [email protected].

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 9 The Four Essential Components of Digital Literacy

How to ensure our children have the skills to thrive in the 21st century.

Common Sense Media recently issued the tial for our kids to succeed—in school Disseminate Digital white paper Digital Literacy and Citizen- and in the 21st-century workplace. They 2 Literacy and Citizenship ship in the 21st Century to outline the four must understand computers, technology curriculum to all schools essential components of Digital Literacy applications, and media production tools Common Sense Media and other education and Citizenship and to frame the ways that will have an increasingly influen- groups have already developed curriculum that they prepare children to learn and tial role in their lives. Using technology resources and tools for Digital Literacy grow in the 21st century. To survive and in the classroom can also deepen and and Citizenship. While more than 12,000 thrive, today’s students must be digitally enrich students’ engagement with tradi- schools have used Common Sense Media’s literate, which means being able to use tional studies. curriculum tools, every student must know and understand digital technologies These Encourage creativity and innovation. how to use digital media effectively and Cnew media literacies must become integral The digital world offers kids unique op- responsibly. Schools across the country parts of their education, both for traditional portunities to create and share content. must have access to lessons and resources studies (reading, writing, math, science) All kids must be able to understand and that reflect the dynamic media landscape as well as for the 21st-century skills they employ ever more powerful media tools— and get the time and support they need to will need to succeed (creativity, innovation, and apply them in creative new ways. This incorporate the lessons into existing cur- communication, critical thinking, civic creativity should be encouraged, along with ricula at each grade level. Funding tech- participation, collaboration). Ensuring that a clear understanding of the differences nology resources in under-served schools our kids are prepared for the future requires between creating, altering, and borrow- and communities is crucial to combating the following essential initiatives: ing content. the digital divide and essential to ensur- Deepen young people’s communication ing that every child has the opportunity to Redesign education to and collaboration skills. The increasingly master 21st-century skills. 1 include Digital Literacy and mobile digital media world offers an ex- Citizenship in every school plosion of ways for kids to connect, com- Fund professional in America municate, and work together. Kids must 3 development and training Incorporate new media literacy into exist- learn new rules of proper communication opportunities for educators ing curricula/courses. New media literacy and collaboration if they are to convey and Teachers across the country need training should be integrated into the curriculum absorb ideas in a responsible, effective, and in the fundamentals of Digital Literacy of every school in America. In our inter- pro-social manner. After all, with these and Citizenship. Teachers must under- connected online world, kids must be able opportunities come risks. For example, stand today’s technologies and applications, to use digital tools to gather and apply given the impact that cyberbullying has as well as what their students are doing information, to evaluate that information on students and school communities, with them, if they are to successfully teach intelligently, and to create content ethically. schools play an important role in helping 21st-century skills and ethics. Teachers Teach basic technology skills in students and families safely navigate the also need guidance about how to connect schools. Technological literacy is essen- digital world. formal learning environments (schools)

10 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY Join Our Legacy Campaign with informal learning environments (after-school programs, libraries, homes) as digital media and technology continue to break down the walls between the two. To encourage efficient and effective programs: Celebrating 60 years ● Create a national Digital Literacy Corps. This program would mobi- lize knowledgeable youth and adults As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we challenge our supporters, to provide professional development stakeholders and community to help create a rich and vibrant future for and training for educators to improve our organization. Your contribution to the AWM Foundation allows us to their facility with technology, media, maintain and expand our stellar PSA campaign, support emerging media and the basic tenets of digital learning. professionals with scholarships to further their career development and ● Provide professional development and our continued work to celebrate and promote the best of media by, for and support through existing structures, including state departments of edu- about women. cation and community college and university systems. Recognition Legacy Supporters will receive recognition and thanks in designated Educate parents about publications, including the AWM and Gracies websites, as well as a 4 digital technologies, use, distinctive recognition certificate. and ethics A parent’s job is to protect and guide. Parents ___ YES! I would like to support & build AWMF. My commitment is below. desperately need to understand not only the ___ YES! I would like more information on the AWMF Legacy Campaign. technologies that inform their children’s Please contact me. lives, but also the issues around behavior and responsible use. In a world that is con- Name(s) stantly developing, the first course of action Company should be to give parents the information Address and tools they need to teach their children about responsible, safe, and ethical behav- City State Zip ior in the digital world. Schools as well as Phone community programs (e.g. Boys and Girls Clubs), after-school activities, and parent Email engagement networks (e.g. PTAs) can facili- tate the dissemination of this information. I (please print name as you would like it to appear)

Like the digital world itself, the concepts of Digital Literacy and Citizenship are would like to gift/pledge the following: complex and changing, and this paper is q Friends of AWMF ($5,000) q Supporter of AWMF ($1,000) intended for constant updates and revi- q Other $______Total Pledge: $ ______sions, which can be found at www.commonsense.org/digitalliteracy. q I would like to remain anonymous. q Please invoice me.

Common Sense Media is dedicated to q Please bill my credit card: ___ American Express ___ Visa ___ MasterCard improving the lives of kids and families Name as it appears on the card by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in a world of media and technol- Account Number Expiration Date ogy. Through their education programs Signature and policy efforts, Common Sense Media empowers parents, educators, and young Send to: AWMF Legacy Campaign people to become knowledgeable and re- 1760 Old Meadow Road, Suite 500, McLean, VA 22102 sponsible digital citizens. More than 1.6 Please note: these funds are unrestricted. million people visit the Common Sense Alliance for Women in Media Foundation is a 501(c)3, tax ID 52-1193933. website, www.CommonSense.org every For more information call 703-506-3290 or email [email protected] month for age-appropriate media reviews and parenting advice.

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 11 Girl Scouts of the USA Tackles Online Safety and Cyberbullying BY LAURIE WESTLEY A century-old organization has reemerged as a leader in issues that impact the healthy growth and development of girls.

Kids today spend upwards of 10 hours a day engaged in recreational media, and with the advent of laptops, smartphones, tablet computers, and online learning, there is an urgent need to ensure we are giving girls the tools to be healthy, smart, and safe in this online environment. New challenges, such as cyberbullying, make it critical to equip girls with the skills they need to be good online citizens. The Girl Scout Research Institute’s (GSRI) Kgroundbreaking original research report Feeling Safe found that nearly half of all girls (46 percent) define safety as not having their feelings hurt. Moreover, girls’ number one concern (32 percent) was a fear of being teased or made fun of, and 38 percent of girls Girl Scouts has also created innovative For nearly 100 years, Girl Scouts of the surveyed worry about their emotional safety programming to promote online safety. USA has been serving girls in communi- when spending time with their peers. Girls The “Let Me Know” campaign (LMK) in- ties around the world. As our girls—and who feel emotionally unsafe are more likely cludes an interactive website for parents our world—have changed, so too has our to feel sad, have trouble paying attention and girls, as well as an e-newsletter for organization, tackling complex issues that in school, get low grades, and have trouble parents. The e-newsletter and parent site impact girls’ healthy growth and develop- making decisions. Unfortunately, the digital are designed to provide parents with guid- ment. Increasingly, our girls’ lives are lived in universe is often a fertile breeding ground ance and also serve as a tool to help families tandem with a robust online presence. From for gossip, teasing, and ridicule—the type have open and honest conversations about understanding and building relationships of threats girls fear most. the dangers that lurk in cyberspace. with their peers, to tackling self-esteem, to Girl Scouts works with Members of Con- Furthermore, our award-winning new pro- learning about health and safety, to recre- gress, State Houses, and the White House grammatic “Journey” series help girls develop ation and discovery, girls are going online. on legislative initiatives to help girls feel healthy relationships and avoid online And we are going with them. Visit www. safe. Last year, a teen Girl Scout delivered threats. For example, our cadette “Amaze” girlscouts.org. testimony to the U.S. House of Representa- journey helps girls navigate the “twists and tives Committee on Education and Labor turns of getting along.” It includes sections Laurie Westley is the on her experiences with cyberbullying. Our on cliques, conflict resolution, bullying and senior vice president of efforts seek to ensure that bullying policies cyber relationships—all designed to help girls Public Policy, Advocacy, address not only physical violence, but develop the life skills they need to manage and the Research Institute at emotional and social aggression as well. these very real problems in their lives. Girl Scouts of the USA.

12 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY Inspired Girls: From Bully to Leader BY LISA NICOLE BELL Workshops teach girls to use technology in a safe and meaningful way.

Mia Escobar is a southern California eighth nology, offline and online relationships grader who is active on social networks. are being molded by the devices we use to She and her friends were using a fake connect. As the next generation of business Myspace page as a means of bullying and owners, mothers and leaders, girls need ridiculing a girl in their school. This behav- interpersonal tools to navigate a complex ior changed when she took a seven-week landscape. The workshop focuses on net- Inspired Girls workshop. After understand- working strategies, relationship building, ing how harmful her actions were, Mia and conflict resolution. Girls learn how decided to remove the page and encourage to create connections with people online her peers to talk their issues out instead of in safe and meaningful ways, and then bullying each other. Girls learn how to create build those connections into sustainable MInspired Girls International was started relationships. They learn how to deal with as a vehicle to empower girls with action- connections with people their peers in healthy ways when resolving able content. Realizing that very little online in safe and meaningful conflict or handling disagreements both content was designed to empower girls ways and then build those online and offline. beyond self-esteem, the team set out to connections into sustainable As girls continue to use the Internet and design multimedia presentations and tools relationships. digital platforms for communicating and to help girls understand how to use the connecting, they will need training and Internet, new media and mobile media as tools to keep them safe and encourage a resource to further their personal and their job hunt as an adult. As they connect positive interactions. The success of the academic goals. the digital dots, they develop a more so- Inspired Girls workshop is being replicated Digital Literacy The bedrock of these phisticated approach to their interactions across the country at after school programs presentations is digital literacy. As middle with technology. and one-day events. school and high school students, girls Role Playing The role playing exercises The next generation of feminine leaders rarely comprehend the possible implica- help girls understand that what happens will need a bevy of skills in order to fully tions of their actions in the digital space. online has offline implications. Girls use take advantage of their new opportunities The workshop educates them on social net- hostile means of resolving issues online in the U.S. and abroad. Ongoing digital lit- working platforms, mobile devices and In- during the first round of the exercise. After eracy education ensures that girls use their ternet safety. Most girls in the United States learning about methods of socially con- keyboards and gadgets to make a positive have a cursory understanding of technol- scious communication, they replay the impact on the world. ogy since they were raised around comput- same incident using the new skills they’ve ers, mobile phones and tech devices. The learned. The result is an organic under- Lisa Nicole Bell is CEO of digital literacy portion of the workshop standing of conflict resolution and the intel- Inspired Girls International helps girls understand what can happen if ligent use of social networking platforms. (www.inspiredgirlsonline. they send racy photos via their phones or Interpersonal Education As the world com). She can be reached at what an ill-intentioned tweet can mean for becomes more connected through tech- [email protected].

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 13 House Rules for Digitally Literate Girls

BY MS. TWIXT & Providing parents with a set of guidelines for GAYLE TROTTER the entire household’s digital success.

How can you let girls become digitally help to mitigate the morning scramble ly. Not only is this a list of where your proficient without being exposed to the and ensure sleep, but it prevents the kids have gone online, but it provides dangers on the Internet? In a word: slowly. late-night, unmonitored text sessions. insight into the kind of information they Kids should be taught to go online in stages ● An ostrich strategy won’t work when it are looking for and what they really use appropriate to their age, and parents need comes to technology. If you don’t know the Internet for (so you can tell if “online to monitor their children’s activity online. how to text, learn; if you don’t know research” includes Facebook or not). Here are some tips for parents: what Facebook or Twitter are, spend ● Parents should “Google” their kid’s ● Create a family technology policy. Ar- some time poking around on those sites; names a few times a year to keep tabs ticulate clearly what your expectations and if you don’t know what you don’t on what information strangers can find are with respect to how mobile phones, know, ask other parents what they’re about your child. television viewing, Internet browsing, monitoring online. ● With mobile phones, most major car- HYouTube watching, texting, etc., are ac- ● Some of the best ways to parent include riers offer text plans that not only ceptable for your family. You should modeling the behaviors we want to see help you to budget text usage but also share and discuss this policy with your in our children. While we often think of monitor the texts. Some carriers charge kids so that they are clear on the behav- that in the context of manners, speech, a fee while others do not—it varies a ior expectations and the reasons why. and ethics, the same applies to online great deal. You can also look for a plan The ethics you enforce in real life abso- behaviors. option that backs-up the information lutely extend to your kids’ digital lives. ● Focus on the positives of technology on a phone (very helpful for the address ● One rule in our household is that all and what it offers to your kids; girls book feature) and monitor photos taken browsing MUST happen at the dining especially need to be comfortable with with the phone. table or living room; computers are not technology in today’s world. allowed in bedrooms. Publicly viewed By day, Ms. Twixt runs the screens have a “fresh air” effect on You are the parent, you are in charge. Trust digital strategy practice of browsing. but verify: a consulting firm and is a ● If your kids are under the age of 13 and ● There are settings on every major browser mother to three tween-age want to join Facebook, consider setting that enable “safe search”—which is es- girls and a baby boy. Ms. up a Facebook account for the entire sentially search result listings of ques- Twixt is a blogger and online family instead of each member of the tionable sites or sites with adult content columnist for the Examiner. family. Check your privacy settings fre- being blocked from display. Clearly this She earned her MBA from quently on Facebook (the default set- is a form of censorship, and it’s not too Yale and makes her living tings change often). different from the settings on one’s cable advising Fortune 500 com- ● Another household rule with mobile box that block out channels based on a panies on social media and digital strategy. phones that you might find helpful: store parent’s preference. Gayle Trotter is a lawyer, mother of six, and all phones in a central place (i.e., NOT ● Parents should check the browsing history blogger on politics, culture, and faith. You can in the child’s room). Not only does it on all computers in the home regular- read her work at http://www.gayletrotter.com.

14 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY Providing Opportunity through Digital Literacy Initiatives By Beth Adcock Shiroishi How one technology company is focused on bring change through innovation.

Digital literacy in this day and age is as funda- with 96% of school age girls using the Inter- the globe. Studies show that women in de- mental as literacy itself. Technology is playing net to complete a homework assignment.3 veloping countries are overcoming centuries an ever-increasing role in our society and Teenage girls are more likely than their male of disadvantage by using the mobile Internet economy, especially in women’s lives. For counterparts to use social networking sites;4 to build small businesses and improve their example, women who are also mothers are therefore, it is imperative that these girls are quality of life. The economic empowerment of often the family organizer, financial manager digitally literate. women in these countries has an exponential and schedule handler, so products and ap- AT&T also is pleased to support One social effect, since women reinvest 90 percent plications can make life more manageable. In Economy, an initiative that stimulates broad- of their income into their families and com- a broader context, access to the Internet and band adoption in low-income communi- munities, compared to only 30-40 percent digital technologies provides tremendous op- ties by delivering free or discounted broad- reinvestment by their male counterparts.6 portunities for the empowerment of women band services to low-income users using AT&T is committed to helping ensure that Dand girls—from expanded education options a shared access strategy. Supplemented by women and girls receive the education and to health applications to career enhancement. funding from AT&T and other partners, One support they desire and need to be active par- 65.8% of women age 25-to-34 report using Economy and the Broadband Opportunity ticipants in the digital economy. We are proud the Internet for health research,1 and women Coalition will use a recent Broadband Tech- to partner with Girls Inc., One Economy, are more likely than men to use the Internet nology Opportunities Program grant to install AWMF and other innovative initiatives that for education.2 and provide two years of free broadband to recognize the tremendous opportunity to AT&T has a strong commitment to pro- approximately 27,000 households, while empower women and girls with technol- moting the digital literacy of women and providing localized content, digital literacy ogy, accelerating their economic and social girls. We are honored to work with several training and a public awareness campaign on development, educational attainment and organizations who share this common goal, the enormous benefits of broadband. communication between families and com- such as Girls Inc., which provides vital educa- These initiatives are also fundamental to munities. tion programs to millions of American girls, reaching a smaller, yet still significant number particularly those in high-risk, underserved of women and girls that are non-adopters. Beth Adcock Shiroishi is areas. Girls involved in this initiative are able According to research by the FCC, 57% of vice president of Sustain- to express themselves, connect with each people who are non-adopters of broadband ability & Philanthropy at other and grow in a safe and supportive en- Internet are women.5 The Internet provides a AT&T Services, Inc., and vironment. Just as important, girls across the roadmap to remarkable opportunities for the president of the AT&T country are increasingly utilizing technology, economic advancement of women around Foundation.

1 Fiore, K. (2011, July 25). Women surf web for health info more than men [Supplemental material]. MedPage Today. Retrieved from http://www.medpagetoday.com 2 Abraham, L.B., Mörn, M. P. & Vollman, A. (2010, June). Women on the web: How women are shaping the internet. Retrieved from http://www2.comscore.com/l/1552/nontheWeb-comScore-English-pdf/R1VBS 3 Girls Incorporated. Girls and information technology. Retrieved from http://www.girlsinc.org/downloads/GirlsandIT.pdf 4 Girls Incorporated. Girls and information technology. Retrieved from http://www.girlsinc.org/downloads/GirlsandIT.pdf 5 Federal Communications Commission. (2010, February). Broadband adoption and use in America. (OBI working paper series No. 1). Retrieved from http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-296442A1.pdf 6 Bennett, J. & Ellison, J. (2010, July 6). Women Will Rule the World. Newsweek. Retrieved from http://www.thedailybeast.com

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 15 Honey, Your Digital Life is Calling

BY JEANNE WOLF Think fast. Write fast. Answer immediately. Can you keep up?

Your digital life is calling. It’s fun. It’s con- A reporter’s mentality helps. As a jour- founding. It seems to take time you don’t There is no such thing nalist, I can tell you that there is no such have. I hate to break it to you, but you have as “knowing enough” or thing as “knowing enough” or finding out to make the time for it. Digital literacy for finding out soon enough. soon enough. You want to be ahead of the females is a necessity. pack. It is wise to keep up with the news. If you are only hooked into fashion and Stay plugged in. No, you don’t have to take gossip sites, you may look great and be able every phone call from your smartphone to keep up the pop culture conversation, who won’t give you “that look” to catch during dinner. Yes, you have to make those but it’s not enough. If you’re only proficient you up. Best to pick someone who doesn’t thumbs fly and you have to have an inti- at the computer programs you need for mind after hours phone calls. It’s those mate relationship with Google. You have your job, not enough. late-at-night computer crashes or click to truly comprehend that most things you YYou have to go way, way past that. Just mistakes that make us give up. Don’t want want to know are available with strokes look at the current job listings for journal- to burden your friends or reveal your inad- and searches. If you need to concentrate ists. Just about every newspaper, magazine, equacies? Almost every software program on extra work time or mommy time, digital TV, and radio station is now a “multimedia” comes with a tutorial. Use it. There are also know-how can earn you extra hours. Put “on the web” company. Don’t whine about many online message forums where you your shopping skills to use. Just about ev- how you’re “just a writer” or how you’ve can connect with people who know what erything you must have can be delivered to done “just fine” without technology for they are doing and are willing to help you. your door with an Internet search. Don’t years. The paradigm has truly shifted. In Or, actually read the manuals which come think, “I have to see it.” Almost all of it is the words of today’s career opportunities with your programs and devices. Why not returnable. for journalists: Do you “have a basic under- take a class? There are many available for Here’s some more advice on living a standing of HTML and related web author- all age groups online and at community digital life: ing tools and software?” Or, “Familiarity centers and local colleges. Ask questions ● Control your fascination and your with most major Internet search engines when you buy your digital equipment, addiction to checking email. On the and fluency in electronic newsgathering make sure it is right for your needs. Train other hand, I don’t think it’s relax- techniques, including quickly navigating yourself to use the tools you have. There ing to be “out of reach”—it’s better the Internet?” Can you, “Employ videos, is no option here. to know, but be discriminating about graphics and photos into the storytell- You have to be technologically skilled your replies and reactions. ing and expand its reach through social to be part of the “there’s an app for that” ● Your digital knowledge is a huge part media.” How about, “Record interviews for era and participate in the conversation. If of your image and your effectiveness. podcasts; Develop original web content?” you know the inner workings of things like Speed and adroitness can get you And never forget, “Understanding of SEO servers and back up drives you will be even noticed. a plus.” more indispensable and earn new respect. ● It is not cute to be out of the loop. Notice that you’re lagging behind in The best job insurance is being the most The more you can do for yourself, digital savvy? Seek out a friend or a teacher knowledgeable and competent. the more you can accomplish. Digital

16 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY competence is imperative if you expect we enhance our capabilities to adopt you are familiar with and whatever to compete and excel in any career. to the ever changing, ever exciting you purchase in the digital world, to- ● You can’t be a stranger to the digital world. morrow there will be a smarter smart- and social networking culture. But, ● Always keep in mind that your digital phone, a better “must have” software woman and girls should know, we life may not be totally private. OK, program, a “do more” device. never have to “do it” like everyone you know not to send risqué videos At a recent Alliance for Women in Media else. or impulsive jpegs of your body parts. event, a soon-to-be college graduate came ● Digital proficiency can take you far. But, be aware that the way you com- up to me. It was obvious that I’d been out You must use those gadgets and appli- municate on the net should be creative of school for a while. She timidly asked, cations to add to your inventory of ca- enough to challenge you to more than “How did you get so good at computers? pabilities. It’s smart to at least explore a misspelled missive or a hasty LOL. Why were you able to catch up?” video games, wireless transmission, Every message you “send” shines a I gave her the only accurate answer, music downloads, and YouTube. But, light on who you are. If you are “yel- “Motivation is the key. You’ll be surprised we multi-tasking females know that lular,” your most intimate conversa- at how quickly you can be trained when you can’t become a time slave to any tions are out in the air for all to hear. necessity calls. We all can learn what we of those things. ● Become creative and confident in absolutely need to know faster and with ● Conquer as much technology as you the way you employ digital literacy. more intensity than what we could have can. Digital up-to-date-ness should Your emails and the documents you ever imagined.” be a necessity and a sport. The digital compose should reflect your intel- world has made it possible for every- ligence and your style. You can press Jeanne Wolf, Host of Jeanne one to have their say or their video. erase and spell check, but you cannot Wolf’s Hollywood, is a well- ● That aside, while you whip out your take back posts you’ve sent out for all known entertainment journal- Kindle or iPad, remember females to see. ist—reporter, writer, producer know about “accessories” and we ● Digital savvy is one more way to dem- and editor—who covers every should use them to compliment the onstrate our intelligence. Be prepared aspect of show business for TV, radio, news- way we send messages and the way for the reality that whichever machine papers, magazines and the Internet.

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 17 Programs Promoting Critical Thinking: Applying Digital Literacy to Journalism and Media Education

By Janet Liao Digital literacy emerges as a critical component of news and media literacy education.

Key trends in youth media consumption is also a place where they get their news. indicate a prime opportunity for educators Just because young people For example, older teens are more likely to utilize digital literacy training to meet are accessing news and to use the Internet as a source of health young people where they are. According information online, does not information (62% have done it), especial- to a 2010 Kaiser Family Foundation study, necessarily mean that they ly older girls (66% of 15- to 18-year-old 8 to 18 year-olds now spend 7 hours and know how to navigate the girls). In fact, 15- to 18-year-olds are more 38 minutes using entertainment media in multitude of sources and likely to have looked up health informa- a typical day, or 53 hours per week. information available. tion online (62%) than to have watched News literacy anchors the McCormick TV (49%), listened to the radio (45%), or Foundation’s strategy of building a more posted videos (22%) online, according to informed, news-literate and engaged citi- teens—are particularly effective in engag- the 2010 Kaiser report. Kzenry, especially in young people. The Jour- ing young women in critical thinking and However, just because young people are nalism Program views digital literacy as a news literacy skills, while preparing them accessing news and information online, key component to news literacy education to excel in the workplace where they can does not necessarily mean that they know in Chicago. We partner with organizations apply journalism and media-production how to navigate the multitude of sources that impact youth, as well as ones that spe- skills. Below are three excellent examples and information available. Without train- cifically address opportunities for girls and of programs that are doing great work ap- ing, digital natives may be fairly comfort- women, to become more civically engaged plying digital literacy to journalism and able in the digital world, but they will not through hands-on journalism, media pro- media education. necessarily master the nuances of infor- duction and news literacy education. mation sources nor have the skills to be Along these lines, we are seeing the im- Digital Literacy Meets leaders in the online world. portant role that digital literacy plays in 1 News Literacy That is where news literacy education engaging students around critical thinking, Activity at the intersection of comes into the picture. “Until students news literacy and media production skills. digital and news literacy can be measured learn some of the basic structures of the We are also seeing that infusing digital lit- by how young people access and engage digital world,” says Peter Adams, Chicago eracy education into youth journalism pro- with news and information. Youth today are program director of the News Literacy grams—especially programs designed for online, and not just for entertainment—it Project (NLP), “teaching them how to

18 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY Throughout 2011, critical issues that affect women were addressed at AWMF Symposia. Pictured at the Symposium on Digital Literacy for Women & Girls are Erin M. Fuller, AWMF President; Clark Bell, Director, Journalism Program at the Robert R. McCormick Foundation; and Valerie K. Blackburn, AWMF Chair. conduct nuanced and often complex as- digitally savvy students tend to absorb Journalism and Digital sessments of journalism can be difficult.” more news literacy skills more quickly.” 2 Media Training for News literacy is focused on analyzing the Students who go through a news literacy Underserved Girls practices of quality journalism and using course show significant knowledge gains While research show that young people’s these practices to define and develop a set in identifying media bias and source reli- online activity trends toward digital and of skills and expectations in consumers. ability, and are significantly more likely to increased multitasking, inner city girls Among the objectives of NLP is to give feel a free press is important, according to and young women often lack appropriate students the critical thinking skills to be results from an evaluation of its programs technology and media training. Chicago- smarter consumers and creators of news in 2010 conducted by NLP and New York- based Beyondmedia Education is address- information in a digital world. Teachers are based Philliber Research Associates. ing this critical gender gap by training provided with lesson plans and journalist By helping young people understand young women in journalism, media and presentations that will make news literacy what they can believe, as well as the im- technology skills. part of their ongoing curriculum. portance of stopping misinformation, news The gender gap is even more profound in Lessons in news literacy often start with literacy is an essential tool in navigating communities of color, where young people digital information, such as the relationship news and information, whether it’s online are less likely to have access to comput- between advertisers and specific web prop- or in print. “The best part about my job ers, according to Salome Chasnoff, artistic erties, what cookies are and how they work, is watching teens’ preconceptions about director and founder of Beyondmedia. “As how to effectively search and what search journalists—that they are this removed, media technologies advance, disparities engines do and how to evaluate search inaccessible, almost inhuman force of es- in access to these technologies increase, results and know the difference between tablishment power that lies and distorts at posing unique challenges to underserved relevance and credibility. “This is not to will—fall away as they work through their youth,” Chasnoff says. suggest that students who are not digitally news literacy units” Adams says. “Not only In Girls! Action! Media! (GAM) work- literate cannot learn anything about news do they begin to ask much more nuanced shops and projects, youth participants gain literacy,” Adams says. “After all, many of and productive questions about the news a wide variety of digital skills. Participants the standards that we explore and teach process, and their active roles as consum- learn how to operate video cameras, still students to expect in their news pre-date ers, they also begin to really understand the cameras and audio equipment, diverse soft- the Internet, but it is clear that the more difficulty of producing quality journalism.” ware applications for editing their media,

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 19 the various techniques of digital storytelling and how to create short media pieces to disseminate on digital platforms. Participants learn the most effective way to tell the stories that are significant to them, through their own voices and in their own style. They also experience the importance of telling under-represented stories for themselves, their communities and diverse public audiences. They analyze and create media, and learn how to use social media in creating and disseminat- ing information. One major component of the GAM program is the Dreamcatcher and Chain of Change media production and digital Women and girls, as well as a concept called Glop Ogus, challenging storytelling programs. Through these two youth of color, are players to think about conservation and programs, Beyondmedia has provided more seldom-heard voices in the how they see the environment. than 600 young women aged 12-21 with Among the program’s goals was to show journalism and media training since 2010. world of game design that girls can create better and more gender Dreamcatcher workshops focus on video inclusive games for the future. The program storytelling and experience the importance also provided a valuable look at the varied of telling under-represented stories for Art and Media (IAM) Department. IAM gaming styles and preferences that girls themselves, their communities and diverse hosted a 3G: The Future of Girls Gaming have and how learning game design can public audiences. Chain of Change works and Gender Summit, a four-day initiative engage girls in critically thinking about in underserved communities and organizes in August 2010 that convened 40 urban social issues, strengthening their digital youth workshops to collectively strategize teenage girls with five leading women literacy and skills and building their con- around how to end violence through the game designers and scholars for intensive fidence in using advanced technologies. creation of media. dialogue, inquiry, game play and rapid “It is hoped that 3G will help change the GAM participants’ future paths are as prototyping. public conversation about girls, gaming diverse as the populations they serve. Some Women and girls, as well as youth of and gender,” Faber says. pursue higher education and professional color, are seldom-heard voices in the world The ultimate goal of the McCormick careers with a focus on media and tech- of game design, according to Mindy Faber, Foundation Journalism Program is to boost nology, according to Chasnoff. “They gain IAM academic manager who developed civic engagement by strengthening the communication and critical thinking skills the conference and workshops. “Digital quality of journalistic content, enabling that often leads to and supports increased gaming is rapidly becoming a powerful audiences to better understand the value feeling of self-confidence and self-worth,” platform for delivery of news, information, of news and fostering an open and free en- she says. culture and education, particularly among vironment for journalism to thrive. Digital Program assessments show that partici- youth,” Faber says. literacy is an important component in de- pants use all these skills in their everyday One of the goals of the program was livering news and media literacy educa- life, not just in their school or career paths, to teach young women to create more tion, and engaging girls to think critically and they also use them to help tell other globally and socially-conscious games and effect change through the media they people’s stories. Participants have improved through a three-day game workshop lab, produce. interpersonal relationships at home, school that included creating an avatar, design and and work. They are able to advocate for brainstorming and game design sessions, Janet Liao is program officer themselves and become peer educators, all rooted in research, writing and critical of journalism at Robert R. confident in speaking out accurately about thinking skills. One team came up with McCormick Foundation. what is important to them and the identi- ties they represent. “Most importantly, they become life-long political and social agents About the Robert R. McCormick Foundation for change,” Chasnoff says. The Robert R. McCormick Foundation is committed to fostering communities of educated, informed Minding the Gap: Digital and engaged citizens. Through philanthropic programs, Cantigny Park and museums, the Foundation 3 Literacy and Girls in helps develop citizen leaders and works to make life better in our communities. The Foundation was Gaming established as a charitable trust in 1955, upon the death of Colonel Robert R. McCormick, the longtime Another organization that is creatively editor and publisher of the Chicago Tribune. The Robert R. McCormick Foundation is one of the nation’s using digital literacy to engage girls is largest foundations, with more than $1 billion in assets. For more information, please visit Chicago’s Columbia College’s Interactive www.McCormickFoundation.org.

20 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY What It Means to Be a Woman Who Uses Social Media BY LENA WEST Women think and learn differently than men—so women should use social media differently than men.

I’ve decided to step out and say what few things, at the right times for the right people are willing to say: professional reasons to get the right results. No women need to approach social media matter how much we’ve ‘evolved,’ differently than males. women are still responsible for the This is not based on some “shrink it bulk of child and family care. We have and pink it” mentality that I’ve adopted friendships to maintain, lives to shape or a desire to rehash male/female dy- and lead and oh, there’s that minor namisms. This idea comes from YEARS matter of personal time. of working with (for the most part) ● Social media lends itself to the way only women business owners—and ac- women naturally communicate and tually BEING a woman business owner share ideas. Historically, most story- Imyself. Call it generalizing tellers are women. Women or gender-based stereotypes Women exchange “secrets” to build (or any other politically invented trust, not men, and these correct label you want social media. nuances carry through to give it), but women online. (The good news is think differently and After all, who you get to define whether a we LEARN different- recommends “secret” is something mar- ly. Period. I’ve seen it more products ginally personal or soul-bar- every single day for the and services ing.) past 14 years I’ve been than women? Here’s what I know for self-employed. sure: One-size-fits-all only Women invented social media. After works for baseball caps and t-shirts. Just all, who recommends more products and as women need to examine their finances services than women? No one. If we’re the differently and we tolerate medicine dif- originators of “word of mouth,” shouldn’t ferently; when we understand that if we our businesses and careers benefit from it? approach social media differently, we’ll Here are a few reasons why women need have much better results than using one- to approach social media usage differently: size-fits-all-guy-centric methods. ● Women don’t have time (or the incli- nation) to “poke around” or “figure Lena L. West is the CEO & it out.” We’re not crazy. We recog- Chief Social Media Strategist nize the value of social media, but we at InfluenceExpansion.com, a need to use marketing tools that get social media consulting firm a measurable amount of progress in that helps women business a reasonable amount of time. owners to leverage social media to EXPAND ● From a time management perspective their influence, EXPLODE their income and alone, women need to do the right ROCK the world.

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 21 Wendy Aylsworth: Leading the Technology

BY andy schwarz An illuminating conversation with an executive who is leading the way for women in technology.

Wendy Aylsworth, Senior Vice President of Technology, Warner Bros., Q: Can you tell us about some new oversees the establishment of new technologies for Warner Bros. pro- technologies that you are using at Warner Bros.? What can we expect to duction divisions and assesses the impact of emerging technologies on see in the next year? content creation and distribution. Aylsworth is currently the elected Aylsworth: Stereoscopic 3D has seen a executive vice president of Society of Motion Picture and Television renaissance with the advent of D-Cinema Engineers (SMPTE). She acted as Engineering Vice President for the technology and Warner Bros. has rapidly past three years, and chaired of SMPTE DC28 in the prior four years, adapted to this exciting art form in all aspects of production, post-production, which generated the initial D-Cinema standards created for industry. and distribution. Filmmakers are experi- W menting with the best ways of using this AWMF had the opportunity to discuss everything from the latest technology and there has been recent technological innovations to why the digital space needs more women strong interest in increasing the frame rates with Aylsworth: of the motion picture camera capture and projection to enhance the sense of realism in 3D movies. Changes over the course of Q: You were recently elected execu- to being elected as the Engineering Vice this next year should allow this artistic tive vp of the Society of Motion President for four years. preference to become a reality for consum- Picture and Television Engineers board ers to enjoy. of directors. Congratulations! How did Q: Technology is changing so quickly. Warner Bros. is continually looking at you get involved in SMPTE? How does a standards-setting or- new ways to make content available to con- ganization keep pace? sumers in an easy and convenient manner, Aylsworth: My early interfaces with and UltraViolet is a new initiative by many SMPTE were attending SMPTE confer- Aylsworth: It is, indeed, challenging to cooperative companies to meet that goal. ences to learn more about television en- achieve consensus in a short time to keep Families will be able to share and enjoy gineering as I moved into that part of the pace with changing technology. Fortunate- their Warner Bros. content next year on a business. That led to further involvement ly, the ability to conduct work via electronic variety of their favorite consumer devices. in the conferences, writing papers and co- meeting rooms with participants dialing in Working hard over the past year to create a ordinating sessions, and later being elected from all over the world, along with non- production process for UltraViolet content, as a Regional Governor of the Board. When real-time electronic correspondence, has Warner Bros. recently announced its first Digital Cinema started, I began attending aided in streamlining the work of SMPTE two Blu-Ray titles that can be shared across the standards meetings on this topic and to get documents balloted and published multiple home and mobile UltraViolet ultimately chaired the Technical Commit- more rapidly. devices at no additional cost. tee on D-Cinema for four years, which led

22 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY ecutive vp—does this signal a change in women’s participation and influence on technology?

Aylsworth: The sciences and engineering technology continue to lag in attracting women to those college majors, but the numbers continue to steadily grow. Hope- fully, my presence as executive vp will act as an encouragement to young women that there are exciting and fun technical careers in the entertainment industry.

Q: What advice do you have for women who want to make a career in entertainment technology?

Aylsworth: Women who have natural inclinations in math and science and are also a good social communicators have the core ingredients needed to succeed in entertainment technology. Much time is spent being the communication bridge between the engineers that make technical tools for entertainment production and either the creative or the business personnel actually doing the production. It is important to understand the artists’ goals in order to find/ develop the right technology tools to achieve Women who have natural their vision, and it is likewise important to Q: You’ve done a lot of work with the develop technology tools to help streamline transition from analog to digital inclinations in math and the business sales and distribution aspects cinema. How does digital cinema change science and are also a good of a company. These require strong skills in the entertainment world? social communicators have patient communications with both technical the core ingredients needed and non-technical personnel. Aylsworth: Beyond the advantages in ste- to succeed in entertainment reoscopic 3D projection, digital cinema is technology. Q: What do you recommend for allowing greater commonality in the pro- women trying to enhance their duction process of digital television, digital Digital Quotient? What are three pub- cinema, and digital mobile content forms. chase of a system of 3D components, has lications, web sites, or apps you read This is important so that we can streamline been a bit slower. There are many more to get a sense of the changing media our production process while increasing factors involved, so this is not necessarily a environment? distribution methods to a rapidly growing surprise. Over the next few years, the cost number of consumer devices. Further, of 3D displays and glasses will continue to Aylsworth: The Wall Street Journal Tech digital cinema has permitted the ability of decrease while the volume of content will section and the New York Times DealBook a wide variety of art forms to be seen on continue to grow. Simultaneously, stan- are two favorites of mine for a general over- the cinema screen—from sports, to rock dards will be developed to permit these view of technology, while both the NAB and concerts, to ballets and television shows, double images to be displayed over all the CEA Smartbriefs are great for technol- digital cinema projection systems provide types of networks on a plethora of devices. ogy more specific to entertainment. Finally, greater flexibility for cinema theaters. These sorts of infrastructure changes will I’m a big fan of Google Alerts, setting up ultimately permit easier consumer deci- alerts on a topic that is of particular inter- Q: Can you tell us what to expect as sion-making on the value of buying a 3D est while I’m working on it. far as bringing 3D to our homes? system for the home. Andy Schwarz is the Aylsworth: While consumers have em- It seems like men dominate the Director of Media Relations braced 3D movies at the cinema as a cost Q: technology side of the media busi- for the Alliance for Women for one specific performance, successful ness. You are the first woman to be in Media Foundation uptake in the home, which requires pur- elected to the position of SMPTE’s ex-

ALLIANCE FOR WOMEN IN MEDIA FOUNDATION 23 New Ways to Promote Women in Media

By Valerie K. Blackburn

he Alliance for Women in Media Foundation is led by a group of smart women looking to hold smart conversations that lead to a push for societal change. As an organization T founded as American Women in Radio & Television 60 years ago, we realize that the shift from conveyance to content means that meaningful, influential, remunerative career opportunities in media now rely upon a proficiency in technology. As we work with our partner organizations—the Girl Scouts, Dove’s Self Esteem Move- ment, the Ford Motor Company Fund, the National Middle Schools Association, among many—we see that when women consider careers in media, they focus on what is in front of the camera—or webcam—rather than designing the system that delivers that content. We believe that needs to change to ensure women continue to make strides within our industry. Earlier this year, AWMF held a Symposium on Women’s Media Ownership in Wash- ington, D.C. With less than 5% of television stations and less than 1% of radio stations owned by women—and when you look at women of color, the percentages drop beneath whole numbers—we took a look at what that means in terms of economic empowerment and community impact. In September we held a Symposium on Digital Literacy for Women and Girls, which thanks to Kate Coates, Rikki Jo Holmes and Sarah Foss, was covered in this Special Report. Later on this year, on November 2nd, we hold our final Symposium of the year on Media Branding to Women. In an era of mommy blog- ging, espnW, and almost total integration of advertising across so many platforms, it is We see that when an interesting time to be a woman—someone that controls over 80% of the purchasing women consider decisions made in this country. careers in media, they AWMF continues to push for progress and influence change. AWMF recently ac- focus on what is in cepted FCC Commissioner Genachowski’s invitation to continue our service on the Commission’s re-chartered Federal Advisory Committee on Diversity for Communica- front of the camera— tions in the Digital Age (“Diversity Committee”). Sylvia Strobel, Esq., Immediate Past or webcam—rather Chair of AWMF, joins with other high-level leaders in the communications industry to than designing the make recommendations to the FCC regarding policies and practices that will further system that delivers enhance the ability of minorities and women to participate in telecommunications and that content. We related industries. We are pleased and proud to serve on the Healthy Media Commis- believe that needs sion, founded by the Girl Scouts of the USA and co-chaired by actor and activist Geena to change to ensure Davis and former FCC Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate. Our president, Erin Fuller, women continue to represents the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation with this esteemed group, and make strides within we look forward to encouraging the adoption of their final recommendations in 2012. our industry. But we still have a lot of work to do. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation harnesses the promise, passion and power of women in all forms of media to empower career development, engage in thought leadership, and drive positive change for our industry and societal progress. We hope that you will help promote women in the media industry through your example, industry influence, mentorship, and continued support of AWMF.

Valerie K. Blackburn is the Market Controller (Los Angeles) for CBS Broadcasting Inc. (Radio). Blackburn serves as the Chair of the 2011 AWMF Board of Directors.

www.AllWomenInMedia.org

24 2011 Special Report on DIGITAL LITERACY Celebrating 60 years

Digital Literacy for Women & Girls Symposium

Thank you to our Symposium Sponsors Silver Sponsors

In-Kind Silver Sponsor

www.AllWomenInMedia.org 130 years and counting... At AT&T we’re proud of the pioneering women who always saw beyond tomorrow, and who helped shape the culture of our company.

We salute the Alliance for Women in Media for its outstanding efforts in empowering women, driving positive change, and promoting digital literacy for all women.

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