Integrating critical media literacy and digital safety in EFL teaching

Abstract

The aim of the study is to analyze and systematize existing approaches to combining media literacy, safety, and language learning, as well as to outline generalized principles and practical dimensions of safety-oriented instruction. The study uses a mix of theoretical and empirical methods. The study outlines a set of generalized principles for media literacy and safety-focused instruction in the EFL classroom, including integration, explicit safety, scaffolded criticality, authenticity, action-oriented learning, and reflection. These principles are further considered through three interrelated practical dimensions: critical media evaluation, digital safety and well-being, and communicative competence with elements of digital citizenship.