Using Pop Culture to Teach Information Literacy: Methods to Engage a New Generation

by Linda D. Behen

Building on the information needs and the learning style preferences of today's high school students, the author builds a case for using pop culture (TV shows, fads, and current technology) to build integrated information skills lessons for students. Chapters include a rationale, a review of the current literature, and examples of units of study incorporating popular culture and technology.

There is serious discussion in the media about today's youth, the Echo Boomers, and their connection with technology. Our high school students tell us that they have few meals with their families, that they want their teachers and their school's decision makers to listen to them and take their ideas seriously, and that they use the little free time they have to talk to or instant message with their friends or to play video games. Author and media critic Jon Katz says, Technology is youth culture. These kids are building a revolution. Technology is part of their ideology, their language, everything they do. Building on the information needs and the learning style preferences of today's high school students, the author builds a case for using pop culture (TV shows, fads and current technology) to build integrated information-skills lessons for students. Chapters include a rationale, a review of the current literature, and examples of units of study incorporating popular culture and technology. Grades 7-12.

128 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2006

Reviews

[Kayla · Rating 2 out of 5]

Written for School and Public Librarians. Some aspects could be helpful for academic librarians and one-shot instruction but most information is geared toward a younger audience.

[Miss Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been using this book to help with programming ideas with the teens here at the library. I like the theme party idea. I already did several music themed ideas with the teens.