A Study on the Application of “Media Literacy” in Japan: Definitions and Insights from a Survey

Abstract

This study explores the application of media literacy by defining its conceptual framework and examining its practical implementation. Media literacy has become increasingly important in today’s complex media environment, where misinformation and personalized content pose threats to democratic decision-making. While previous research has extensively focused on defining media literacy competencies, limited attention has been given to how individuals apply these skills in everyday contexts. This study addresses this gap through a two-part investigation. First, a critical review of existing definitions and components of media literacy in Japanese educational research highlights the lack of explicit discussion regarding its application. Second, a survey examines how media literacy is applied in real-life contexts and investigates its application through a survey. Findings reveal that the application of media literacy varies depending on these factors. High interest and trust in information sources promote active media literacy behaviors, whereas low levels inhibit application. These results emphasize the need to incorporate application-focused elements into media literacy frameworks to better reflect real-world practices. This study provides insights into enhancing media literacy education by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, offering directions for future research on its development.