frequently asked questions
These are two questions which, essentially, mean the same thing: It is a process of teaching and learning about media; acquiring the skills in “reading,” analyzing and evaluating all forms of media “texts”; developing the students/participants’ critical abilities in their exposure and use of information communication technology.
Simply put, we need a “screen” to monitor what goes on in today’s “media world”, and to use the same screen as a forum of opinions about:- the pervasiveness, persuasiveness and power of the MASS MEDIA as well as the growing popularity of the NEW COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY,
– what people (especially the youth) already know about the media, HOW and WHY they react the way they do with respect to diversity of culture and beliefs,
– reinforcements needed in terms of principles of media literacy which people need to know to understand further how “media curriculum” differs from “school curriculum”, and certain ethical perspectives which are deemed vital in making objective interpretations and choices for life-long skills.
PICA (Paulines Institute of Communication in Asia) Foundation is a non-profit organization of the Daughters of St. Paul, established with the goal to train professional educators on Media Literacy. It is located at the Paulines Communication Center, 2655 F. B. Harrison Street, Metro Manila, Philippines.
A “certificate program” is a modular package to be completed by the participant with a specified number of credit hours earned to qualify for a “certificate of attendance”.
Depending on the types of modular courses, any individual, who perceives and/or believes that MEDIA is ‘making a difference’ in his/her life – is most welcome to attend the courses offered by PCC. Or, an individual may simply be interested to know ‘what’s up’ – then, it’s probably he or she who will ‘make that difference’ for PCC participants.
The modular package on Communication & Media Education is offered on a six consecutive weekends every summer (April – May). This is equivalent to 120 quality hours. The courses usually starts Friday afternoon and ends Sunday afternoon. To qualify for a certificate award, each participant is required to complete the number of hours specified. If, for some reasons, the participant misses a module or two, he/she may take the same courses within the year which are usually offered on weekends. Or, complete them in the next summer.
For purposes of evaluation and individual/institutional benefits, the participants are expected to ‘distil the essence’ of media education in any project output (lesson plan, powerpoint presentation, video production or an actual session with a group of one’s choice).
The summer program is per training package. The weekend courses within the year is per module.
For reasons of availability, PCC staff expects to be notified at least two weeks before the given date (or, much earlier if possible). For other details please contact us either by phone or by e-mail.
Yes. As a matter of fact, we have a “sponsored participation” awarded to ten (10) deserving Pastoral workers, public school teachers, or youth leaders every year. The number of ‘sponsored participation’ may vary depending on the funds that PCC receives from well-intentioned organizations and/or private individuals here and abroad.
Other than the recommendation from their respective Bishops, or Parish Priests, or School Superintendents, applicants will be asked to fill up a form which will provide the PCC staff with profiles showing the responsibilities, pastoral involvements and Media Education initiatives of the applicants. The forms will indicate how this media education program will enable the applicants to serve their Dioceses, Parishes or Schools better.