Media and information literacy among college students in Aizawl, Mizoram

Abstract

Background: This paper examines the challenges posed by the rapid growth of mobile phone and internet usage in India, particularly in Aizawl, Mizoram, and the proliferation of false information and its decimation. As digital media rapid growth increases with the advancement and development of readily accessible technological devices, such as mobile phones. Purpose: This study aimed to describe the media and information literacy among college students in Aizawl, Mizoram. Methods: This study used a mixed-methods research design, integrating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Results: Furthermore, contextualized social media literacy within the Mizoram context was examined, along with the factors influencing the local population’s awareness and skills for navigating the digital landscape. The findings contributed to examining college students as primary consumers of digital media across various platforms and to the broader discourse on digital media literacy regarding misinformation and disinformation, emphasizing the importance of developing analytical and ethical competencies. The study explored the impact of critical digital literacy activities on enhancing participants’ social media and information literacy awareness. Conclusion: The findings are based on college students in Aizawl, with a comprehension of its regional ethnic culture, shedding light on the potential benefits of such interventions for studying media literacy and countering the spread of false information among college students and institutions in Aizawl, Mizoram. Implications: The study highlights the importance of integrating digital and media literacy programs into higher education in Aizawl. These programs should focus on developing students’ critical thinking and ethical understanding in using and evaluating online information.