Media Watch

Gary Chong Khin Jin ¹, N. V. Prasad ²

Affiliations
1 School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, MY
2 Film & Broadcasting Section, School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia 11800, IN

Abstract

This paper will engage with the concept of a 'technology synergy eco-system' which blends together the two core elements of HD video DSLR and the new social media platform to determine, if this could actually be a potent formula for the emergence of a potential alternative virtual cinema. This alternative virtual cinema has both connotations as a medium of transmission of a certain film to the masses and also elements of film techniques in terms of aesthetics and etc. It is beyond a shadow of a doubt that in this current day and age, we can see that the social new media has impacted practically every facet of society. The question beckons then, what about cinema? Does the level of interactivity in which the social new media provides, combined with the affordability and ease of using a HD video DSLR to produce videos with high production values and cinematic quality nuances serve as a precursor to the trends and patterns which might lead up to an alternative virtual cinema? With these exciting questions in mind, it is of great interest to us as modern day filmmakers, in exploring and giving an exposition into this subject matter, to deconstruct the elements and see if the possibility is viable or merely an idealistic notion.

Keywords

Virtual Cinema, HD Video DSLR, New Social Media, Technology Synergy

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N. V. Prasad ¹, Shanthi Balraj ²

Affiliations
1 Film & Broadcasting Section, School of Communication, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, MY
2 School of Arts at Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, MY

Abstract

In the present new media world, it is essential for the students to develop a sense of media awareness and activism to facilitate social learning in relation to the surrounding world. In building a productive learning culture among the students, media literacy is a necessary intervention in developing critical understandings, creative abilities, and active participations. Developing media literacy practices among secondary school students on environment is important as the world is becoming less green and the environment is declining. The aim of this study was to examine secondary school students' media literacy practices in Malaysia using the case of video making on environmental issues with a focus on three core components of media literacy practice namely process, text and inquiry developed by Thoman & Jolls (2004). On the whole, the study has revealed that despite difficulties in understanding the environment and critical media inquiry, students are quick to learn and are able to engage in video making on environment in a productive way. However, the results of the study present a cause for concern, optimism and the need for inculcating active media participation of the students' voices on the environmental issues facing the country.

Keywords

Media Literacy, Video Making, Environmental Issues, Secondary Students, Creativity

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