Making Sense of Media Network and Panel


Making sense of mediaOur Making Sense of Media Network and Panel bring together those with an interest in promoting media literacy across the UK.

Established in 2019, our network currently has 460 members representing a variety of organisations in the UK and internationally. The purpose of the network is to increase collaboration, information-sharing and debate to improve media literacy in the UK.

We want to use our research and insights from across sectors as a foundation for developing the most effective initiatives and to inform media literacy policy. We want the network to continue to build and share evidence of UK adults’ and children’s understanding and use of electronic media.

Why join the network?

As a network member, you’ll:

  • be invited to and participate in events showcasing the latest media literacy research, facilitating media literacy discussion, collaboration and activity across the UK;
  • contribute to regular Making Sense of Media Bulletins that summarise media literacy activities by a range of organisations in the UK and overseas. These activities include research, events, projects and initiatives;
  • participate in network working groups.

We aim to get as many new and existing Ofcom stakeholders with an interest in media literacy to join the network. You do not need to have a formal role in media literacy to join our network. Whether you simply want to hear more about media literacy activities and research, or you’re keen to take a more active role in discussions, events or working groups, we would like you to be part of the network.

Advisory Panel

The Making Sense of Media Advisory Panel informs Ofcom's work to help improve the online skills, knowledge and understanding of UK adults and children. The Panel provides first-class insight to support and challenge our thinking.

Having recently updated our approach to online media literacy, we have decided to refresh the terms of the Panel and invite new members. The new Panel will support Ofcom's work in five overlapping areas – Engage, Initiate, Establish, Evaluate and Research – with particular focus on the following activities:

  • Sounding board and critical friend: representing a range of perspectives, the Panel will advise and challenge our media literacy work.
  • Connector: the Panel will help connect Ofcom to the right expertise at the right time, so our work is informed by best practice across the sector.
  • Horizon scanning: the Panel will support our thinking on emerging media literacy opportunities and challenges, such as those brought about by new consumer technology like voice assistants, wearables and haptics. It will highlight new themes or trends to consider, particularly where Ofcom has an opportunity to intervene early.

The Panel is a voluntary forum. Members are appointed by Ofcom for an initial 24-month term, and they will be expected to commit no more than two-and-a-half days a year.