Chapter 4.4

Media and Political Communication: How Media Shapes Canadian Democracy

Explore how traditional and digital media influence political discourse, public opinion, and democratic participation in Canada, from CRTC regulations to social media algorithms.

What You'll Learn

Canadian media institutions regulate and shape political communication significantly.
Agenda-setting and framing theories explain media influence on public opinion.
Social media creates filter bubbles, enabling micro-targeting and disinformation spread.
Digital and media literacy are essential skills for informed democratic participation.

What You'll Practice

1

Students analyze CRTC regulations and Canadian Elections Act advertising rules.

2

Learners identify media framing effects and social media communication concepts.

3

Practice questions test knowledge of disinformation, astroturfing, and digital literacy.

Why This Matters

Understanding how media shapes political communication empowers students to critically evaluate information, recognize manipulation, and participate meaningfully in Canadian democratic life.

This Unit Includes

Practice exercises
Learning resources

Skills

Agenda-Setting
Media Framing
Digital Literacy
Disinformation
Political Participation
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NS Curriculum Aligned

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