9 Aptitudes and 7 excellences of media and information literacy for public good: A purpose-driven and critical feflection.

Abstract

This paper argues for media and information literacy (MIL) as a public good. When nations and peoples are informed, media and information literate, engaged, and empowered, information as a public good becomes possible and sustainable. However, for people to be empowered with media and information literacy, media and information literacy itself must be a public good. In this paper, the author shares what was in his mind and heart when the 5 Laws of Media and Information Literacy were articulated and invites partners around the world to pour into this container intended to stimulate a melting pot of knowledge. For the first time, using the proposed 9 Aptitudes and 7 Excellences of Media and Information Literacy, this paper buttresses the argument that media and information literacy is a public good and must be deployed for the public good. It is a way for people to guard their minds and hearts.