Critical Digital Media Literacy as Core Competence in Communication Education: Evidence from a Blended Learning Case Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38194/jurkom.v9i1.1603Keywords:
Critical Digital Media Literacy, Communication Education, Blended Learning, Higher Education, Qualitative Case StudyAbstract
Enhancing digital literacy has become a national priority in Indonesia; however, university students still demonstrate limited critical competencies in analyzing, comparing, and evaluating digital information. This study aims to examine how a blended learning model fosters critical digital media literacy within communication education. This research employed a qualitative approach using a best practice case study design focusing on high-achieving students. Data were collected through classroom observations, reflective assignments, and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving 29 participants, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that blended learning facilitates students’ analytical reasoning, cross-platform comparative assessment, and systematic information evaluation. Students demonstrated strong abilities in verifying information credibility, identifying media bias, and reflecting on their own critical thinking processes. This study concludes that blended learning functions as an effective pedagogical space for cultivating higher-order critical digital media literacy competencies in communication students.
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