This thesis looks at how authentic material taken from the media (television, newspapers, radio, Internet, videogames etc.) can be implemented in the classroom with the aim of encouraging student autonomy and life-long self-directed learning.

The theoretical part attempts to weave 5 strands of current educational discussion – authenticity, cultural awareness, multiple intelligences, collaborative intelligence, and learner autonomy – into a coherent pedagogical vision for the 21st century. Set against the background of pervasive access to information, the proliferation of digital tools and media, and the participatory nature of modern communication platforms, this work advocates a collaborative approach to learning that ties the classroom into the larger internet community.

The practical part looks at how these theoretical concepts can be actualized in the classroom and evaluates their validity in the light of learner and teacher experience. It addresses real-life issues and considerations that have emerged in the learning process and makes suggestions for good practice.

By establishing a dialogue between theoretical enquiry and classroom actualization, I hope to have produced a work that provokes both thought and action, and proves useful to teachers who want to set up a Media class or use media materials as a supplement in their teaching.