A recent national survey indicates that despite the frequent use of various digital media by the majority of Australian adults on a daily basis, their confidence in their own digital media capabilities remains low. This survey, conducted collaboratively by Western Sydney University, the University of Canberra, and Queensland University of Technology, covered 4,442 adults and aimed to understand their media literacy status.
Image Source Note: The image was generated by AI, provided by the image licensing service Midjourney
The survey results show that about 65% of respondents use three or more different media forms daily. Those who frequently consume diverse media feel more confident about their media abilities. However, despite this, 40% of adults have tried text-based generative AI services but hold a largely negative view of the technology. The majority hopes for relevant regulations to mitigate potential harm.
Additionally, many reported frequent encounters with misinformation, with 80% of adults hoping for action against the spread of misinformation, an increase of 6% compared to 2021. Almost all those wishing to combat misinformation believe that people should be taught how to identify it.
The lead author of the survey, Associate Professor Tania Notley from Western Sydney University, stated that despite almost all Australians using social media and digital platforms in their daily lives, progress in adult media literacy remains slow. She noted that most adults are not confident in their ability to identify false and misleading information online, create and post videos, edit digital photos, adjust social media privacy settings, or seek help from relevant institutions when harassed.
Associate Professor Notley emphasized the strong demand for media literacy education in both adults and schools in Australia, but many have not received such education or lack necessary support. Although 68% of respondents have heard of the term "media literacy," only one-third have a certain level of understanding. Older adults, those with lower educational attainment, and those with lower household incomes are less likely to grasp the concept.
The survey results show that 82% of people believe that adults need media literacy education. Professor Sora Park also stated that Australians are eager to understand the rapidly changing media environment and want to learn how to protect themselves and their families from scams and misinformation. However, support is not always readily available, especially for groups with lower media literacy levels, such as residents in remote areas, those with low education levels, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
Associate Professor Notley added that some progress has indeed been made in media literacy since 2021, with the proportion of respondents understanding media literacy increasing by 9%. This may be due to the advocacy of the Australian Media Literacy Alliance and the efforts of some organizations in youth media literacy projects. She called on the government, public institutions, education providers, and businesses to actively promote media literacy.
Key Points:
📊 The majority of adults (65%) use three or more media daily but lack confidence in their media capabilities.
🤖 Despite 40% having tried generative AI, the overall view of the technology remains negative, with a desire for stronger regulation.
📚 82% believe there is a need for media literacy education for adults, particularly for those with lower media literacy.