Connected Learning Summit 2019

In the current media climate, where news sources are deemed “fake” and where youth are often portrayed in a negative light, it is essential that we provide youth with the space to share their stories. As youth recognize that their peers, citizens, and stakeholders are ready to listen, they can fight negative stereotypes and reframe themselves as passionate agents of change. Our interactive symposium scans the world of youth digital video journalism, providing first hand experience with curriculum, tools, and programs designed to increase critical media literacy skills and civic engagement. As our organizations continue to expand capacity and range through creating new digital tools and bridging new communities, we offer this symposium as an opportunity for conference attendees to explore innovative moves in digital journalism and propose methods for continuous improvement. The symposium will begin with a lightning round pitch from three youth video production programs, PBS Newshour Student Reporting Labs, Wisconsin Public Television and the Click Youth Media program, and KQED and Above The Noise. In their pitch, each organization will provide an overview of their program and share a current programmatic challenge. Attendees will then choose two groups to visit during the second part of the symposium. The lead from each group will engage attendees in a problem solving dialogue around the programmatic challenges, pooling attendees’ expertise for meaningful solutions.