5. Meeting in Izmir

Introduction:

The week-long programme, held in Izmir, Turkey with the participation of Denmark, Italy and Turkey, consisted of various activities designed to explore different aspects of media, cultural exchange and social media education.

 

Objectives:

Facilitate cultural exchange and understanding between students and teachers from different countries.

To develop participants' media literacy skills and critical thinking skills regarding media consumption.

To explore the role of social media in contemporary society and its impact on communication and information dissemination.

To provide a platform for discussions on media ethics, journalistic principles and challenges facing traditional and digital media.

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Activities:

Presentations on Partner Schools and Countries: Each participating school presented its institution, city and country and provided information about their culture and education system.

Cultural Quiz - Kahoot: A fun and engaging quiz session allowed participants to test their knowledge of each other's cultures, promoting cultural awareness and understanding.

Discussion on Media and Truth: Participants shared news and perceptions about partner countries and discussed stereotypes, prejudices and the role of media in shaping perceptions.

Presentations on Social Media Education: Students explored the functions and effects of social media, encouraging critical thinking about its role in society.

Lecture on Media Sociology: The lecture, given by Nuran Işık Erol, an academic from Ege University, provided theoretical insights into media sociology and enhanced participants' understanding of media dynamics and their social impact.

E-Newspaper Preparation: Students collaborated to produce an e-newspaper showcasing their journalistic skills and reflecting on their experiences during the week.

Cultural Excursion: Visits to Ephesus, Selçuk Archaeological Museum, House of Virgin Mary and Şirince Village.

Round Table Discussions: Teachers participated in meetings to evaluate the programme and promote media literacy in their schools and to create a teacher's handbook.

 

Results:

Increased intercultural understanding and appreciation among the participants.

Improved media literacy skills, including critical analysis of media content and social media engagement.

Increased awareness of media ethics, journalistic principles and challenges faced by traditional and digital media.

Strengthened international cooperation and solidarity between partner schools and educators.

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The visit to TRT, which was planned in the programme, was cancelled by the institution due to their busy schedule. Instead, the turkish students visited 9 Eylül newspaper and made interviews on media ethics, media and democracy, freedom of the press. See 4. Meeting parallel.