About the "Paulines" and the Center
The Paulines Institute of Communication in Asia is a non-profit institution owned and managed by the Daughters of St. Paul, missionary sisters of social communication, whose specific charism in the Church is evangelization through the communications media.
Vision
A pastoral center for the proclamation of Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, through animation in communication and media education for evangelization and human advancement.
Mission
Established for a prophetic and evangelizing mission, inculturated in the
Asian situation and responsive to the changing demands of media culture in
creative fidelity to the Pauline charism and the Church, with preferential
option for the poor, this Center is committed to:
*Provide
training programs in media education giving priority to pastoral workers,
catechists and youth.
*Provide cultural, apostolic and spiritual animation using media technology.
*Collaborate with the local Church and other media institutions.
*
Promote Christian media productions and services.
*Promote communication within the Church and society.
Educational Philosophy
The Paulines Institute of Communication in Asia is anchored on the belief
that ‘commitment’ through formation to communication and media
education is one key to human advancement in the third millennium. This inference
consolidates an eclectic philosophy of education in two main ideas:
1. Media Education begins from where individuals are.
Every person emerges from diversified cultures, hence, varied socio-economic status, value system, beliefs, perceptions, opinions, needs, interests and different media exposures. Given emphasis in media education are:
WHAT
individuals already know about the media;
WHO says 'what' to certain media issues;
WHY individuals' interests are captured by the media;
and HOW media works in different ways with individuals.
We value this wealth of ‘meanings’ in every person, but at the
same time, we also believe that this will bring ‘self-fulfillment’
to them – only if these experiences will give real meaning to their
life.
Today, MEDIA has claimed a huge share in people’s daily experiences. It “does not only influence their culture… our culture. Media, in fact, is already our culture”.
Through media education we can help make a difference for life-long skills.
2. Media Education is a springboard to critical autonomy.
As we create an atmosphere of “free expression” while building on where individuals are, the Center maintains a staff who serve as facilitators, guide and resource persons – reinforcing and/or providing what is perceived as lacking in content – and while assuming non-directive roles, they lead individuals gradually towards:
Critical
awareness - Reflection
Analysis – Evaluation
Media Appreciation
Plan of Action for LIFE
We believe in the power and persuasiveness of the MEDIA as well as in the
capacity of individuals for concrete learning through multi-sensory involvement
and enlightened information. We believe in value-clarifications as a way of
strengthening individual judgment and decisions. Moreover, we believe that
if properly understood and used, these instruments of social communications
including the new communication technology, can bring about powerful changes
(intellectually, psychologically, morally and even spiritually) to both individuals
and society as a whole.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "Media Education"? What is
"Media Literacy"?
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.
Why do we need "Media Education"?
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.
What does "certificate program" imply?
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".
Who can attend the program?
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.
How long does it take to complete the certificate
program?
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.
Are there any more requirements to complete
the program?
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).
Is the fee per training package or per session?
The summer program is per training package. The weekend courses within the year is per module.
What is the obligation of the Schools or organizations inviting PCC staff for lectures or seminars to be held in their respective places?
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.
Has PCC a "special offer" to participants from poor Dioceses/Parishes?
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.
What are the qualifications for "sponsored
participation"?
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.
PICA