Annie in wonderland

  Media Literacy, Critical Thinking and Why Difficult Conversations Matter One thing I’ve been thinking about a lot lately is media literacy and the importance of critical thinking — especially in the disability and support sectors. We live in a time where people are constantly surrounded by information, opinions, headlines, short-form videos, outrage cycles, and algorithm-driven content. Because of that, I think it’s more important than ever that people learn how to step back, ask questions, and think critically about what they are watching and hearing. That doesn’t mean blindly accepting everything someone says. In fact, it means the opposite. Critical thinking means listening, questioning, researching, comparing viewpoints, and deciding where you personally stand. I think people like Warren Smith are valuable in that sense because they encourage people to think deeper about media narratives, communication, and how information is presented to us. Whether you agree with every poin...

  Disability support plays a vital role in the lives of many individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Whether you’re a client, family member, support worker, or simply interested in learning more, understanding how disability support systems work—and why ethics matter—helps us all contribute to safer, more respectful care. A Note on the Journey Living with or supporting someone with a disability can involve days that are challenging, frustrating, or overwhelming. This is part of the human experience—one that deserves patience, kindness, and honesty. This post aims to share insights openly and respectfully, helping us grow stronger together. Disability Support Systems Around the World Disability support looks different everywhere, influenced by culture, law, and resources. Here’s a brief overview: Australia’s NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme): Focuses on personalized support with options for self-management, though recent changes like Foundational Suppo...

In an era dominated by digital information, media literacy is more crucial than ever. Understanding the differences between legacy media and new media, recognizing satire, navigating cancel culture, and being aware of media ownership and bias can help individuals make informed decisions and stay true to their beliefs. This blog post delves into these topics, offering insights on how to be a savvy media consumer. #### Legacy Media vs. New Media **Legacy Media:** Legacy media refers to traditional forms of media such as newspapers, television, and radio. These media outlets have been around for decades and are often characterized by: 1. **Gatekeeping:** Information is filtered through editors and producers, ensuring content meets certain standards. 2. **Credibility:** Established reputations often lend credibility to legacy media. 3. **Slower Pace:** News cycles are slower, with daily or weekly updates. 4. **Limited Interaction:** Audience engagement is minimal, typically limited to lett...