PeaceWork’s Media Smart campaign ends

Teachers in four schools were part of the project dubbed “Media Smart”. Those educators spent time learning the skills necessary to spot things like misinformation, disinformation and fake news. That way, they can impart those skills to the students they teach. The genius behind this initiative is Dr. Carol Babb, the executive director of PeaceWork Belize. According to Dr. Babb, the campaign, which was supported by the U.S. Embassy in Belmopan, was designed to help teachers hone their students’ critical thinking skills. 

Dr.Carol Babb, Executive Director, Peacework Belize: “It was a very very successful training program. I have seen teachers and students grow. I have seen students and teachers become very responsible in the way they respond to media. The students and teachers are becoming more critical thinkers. They are now able to speak out on issues that they feel very passionate about. I strongly believe that this is something needed in all schools. Everyone needs to become media smart. We are bombarded by media. Every day we are faced with media. There are a number of issues affecting us as Belizeans. Media literacy being media smart means that you will speak out, you will be responsible, you will share your views and so it’s important as a country that we ensure that our young people have the critical thinking skills to navigate through this world.”

Reporter: How do you think the teachers have received the training ? 

Dr.Carol Babb, Executive Director, Peacework Belize: “The teachers have received the training well. I mean they are excited. What they will have to do they have to by the ending of this week they will have to submit a portfolio to us and also to the Ministry of Education so that they can get CPD hours. They will share/give reflection on what Media Smart has done for them, how it has changed their behavior in the way they help students to become critical thinkers and to respond to issues affecting them.”