About This Lesson
Thinkalong.org is a free, evidence-based interactive tool for students to develop media literacy skills by applying the 5 Key Questions of Media Literacy to public media content. Importantly, the tool does not require registration for teachers or students, abides by student privacy laws, and is advised by a board of both youth and educators.
Each module consists of:
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a compelling and timely question;
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related current and age-appropriate public media content including audio, video, and text;
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extension resources for advanced or highly-interested students;
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student graphic organizers;
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a simple debate tool;
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a teacher's guide to the module;
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and a guide to the 5 Key Questions of Media Literacy.
This Teacher's Guide supports the Should high schools prioritize college ot workforce preparedness? module on thinkalong.org. Here is the full module and below is a summary.
In most high schools across the United States, classes are focused on academic topics that are necessary for applying to and attending college. However, the cost of college is higher than ever and many college graduates are finding themselves buried in debt or without jobs. Recently there has been increased federal and state funding for technical training in high schools to support the growing demand for skilled labor that does not require a college degree. But which direction is better for supporting the needs and abilities of students, as well as the country’s changing labor market: college or workforce preparedness?
To use this module with learners in any setting, we recommend using one of the structured discussion formats outlined at thinkalong.org/structuring-discussions. You can find options for a small or large group, so that all students or just a few participate, and examples of some discussion formats.
