Digital media education for Korean youth

SummaryAs youth in contemporary societies grow increasingly dependent on digital media, media education has become a policy consideration, particularly in wired parts of the non-Western world. Due to rapid adoption rates, media penetration, and positive attitudes toward new and innovative technologies, Korea presents an ideal test case for understanding the everyday impact of digital media. The purpose of this paper is to examine the national policies and public discourse concerning digital media education in a rapidly growing market. Specifically, this study considers the development of a standardized educational program for youth in Korea. To frame this analysis, we present an overview of the types of digital media education and trends at the national policy level among English-speaking countries. This is supported by a review of literature focusing on the use of digital media among youth, supplemented by current digital media usage statistics among Korean youth and an overview of Korean government policy programs. A case study of Web site analysis is presented to illustrate implications and stimulate discussion regarding educational policy.