Teachers’ perception of the impact of English language skills of students on media and information literacy

Abstract

Background: Effective communication is the goal of media and information literacy, and English language skills aim to enhance proper communication through the language. Relevant literature has established the role of English skills in the acquisition of media and information literacy. However, there is no sufficient study to x-ray teachers' perception of the impact of English language skills on media and information literacy.

Objective: This study sought to evaluate the teachers' perception of the impact of English language skills on media and information literacy.

Methodology: The study employed a descriptive survey design and purposive sampling method. A structured questionnaire (which served as the instrument for the study) was developed by the researchers. A total of 103 teachers responded to the instrument that provided data for the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical tools such as frequency counts, mean scores, and standard deviation to answer the research question, while a t-test was used to test the hypotheses.

Result: The findings revealed that English language skills contribute significantly to the acquisition, enhancement, development, expansion, and explosion of media and information literacy. It is observed that both English and media literacy skills are aimed at the actualization of effective communication. Secondly, the findings showed that the acquisition and utilization of English skills by the students will make them media and information literate, and thereby positioning them for sound, logical, and robust media engagement.

Unique contribution: This study has provided additional empirical data to support the position that English language skills facilitate the acquisition of media and information literacy.

Conclusion: English language skills have an immense impact on media and information literacy.

Key recommendation: Teachers of English language should instill in their students, the appropriate English language skills for effective media and information literacy.