“THEY’RE NOT JUST FOR FRIDAYS ANYMORE”: HISTORICAL INQUIRY, MEDIA LITERACY, AND HOLLYWOOD FILMS
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Authors
Charles J Elfer
Scott L. Roberts
Brian Fahey
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Journal Article, Academic Journal
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Abstract
Given the historical inaccuracies that tend to characterize commercial films, simply viewing a given film often limits students’ opportunities to develop an informed understanding of the topic under study. Teachers and students must understand the value and significance of engaging in a thoughtful and rigorous investigation of embedded topics. The absence of a structured activity, interpretive guide, or rationale for use potentially creates an environment where students are arguably just watching movies, which is rightfully frowned upon by administrators and parents alike. In this article, we outline two structured approaches to using film in the classroom, each of which seek to develop inquiry and media literacy skills in students of history by moving beyond the passive viewership that sometimes accompanies the Friday afternoon classroom cinema.