Activating Academic Voice: Explorations of the Media Landscape

This essay examines the role of voice-centred media practices in promoting public engagement and enhancing academic research in a media environment dominated by platform capitalism. It argues that developing academic researchers’ media literacy is essential to their understanding of how communication spaces are created and managed. Through the ‘Let’s Read the “Terms of Service” Out Loud!’ workshop, participants explored the often-overlooked implications of digital media and platform use. This activity raises awareness of the personal data exchange inherent in platform capitalism. The essay also introduces the telephonoscope , an experimental medium that combines digital apps with classic black dial phones, enabling participants to engage in personal storytelling. These media practices offer alternative methods for engaging with media platforms, fostering reflection on their societal impact. Integrating media theory into research and embracing voice-based storytelling practices can bridge the gap between academic researchers and the public, creating more profound insights into digital media.