New media guide offers tools to understand media in the digital era

Birzeit University’s Media Development Center (MDC), in cooperation with the Finnish Lifelong Learning Foundation (KVS), and the Institute for Community Partnership (ICP) at Bethlehem University, have produced and published “Media Guide,” a new textbook on media and media ethics, edited by Karoliina Knuuti.

This book is part of the ongoing relationship between MDC and KVS that aims to support the development of media literacy, especially in fragile states and countries under conflict.

Nibal Thawabteh, MDC’s director, explained that the textbook is the second, fully revised edition of the book of the same title that was published in 2016. The aim of “Media Guide,” in both editions, is to provide basic and practical information about media ethics, the freedom of expression, the critical analysis of social media content, and the role of media advocacy.

The guide is designed to benefit professional and citizen journalists, social media influencers, and persons interested in learning how the media works. Its content reflects the digital era that is changing the traditional concept of professional reporters, as reporting is moving towards publications on the internet and social media. The textbook discusses the know-hows of creating ethical and responsible journalism that best promotes democracy, enhances the supervision of journalistic work, and avoids fake news sources.

“Media Guide” is available online at www.mediaguide.fi in Arabic and English for either personal use or instruction.