As artificial intelligence and algorithm-driven platforms rapidly reshape communication, education, and culture, media literacy education must evolve beyond traditional approaches focused solely on content consumption and analysis. This session explores documentary storytelling as an interdisciplinary information design framework for developing critical thinking, communication, and digital literacy skills in contemporary learning environments.
Drawing from graduate research within Northwestern University’s Information Design & Strategy program, this presentation examines how storytelling-centered learning experiences can help students become more intentional creators, collaborators, and interpreters of information. Through examples from the Young & Filming initiative, participants will explore how documentary production practices—including interviewing, narrative construction, visual communication, and ethical storytelling—can strengthen literacy comprehension, emotional intelligence, and audience awareness.
The session will also address the growing role of AI within creative and educational ecosystems, examining both the opportunities and tensions surrounding generative technologies in storytelling workflows. Rather than positioning AI as a replacement for human creativity, this presentation advocates for a human-centered design approach that emphasizes empathy, critical inquiry, and authentic communication.
By combining principles from learning design, media studies, documentary filmmaking, and digital strategy, this session offers an interdisciplinary model for preparing learners and professionals to navigate increasingly automated and information-saturated environments.
