Abstract:

Schools are increasingly confronted with questions of self-image, gender stereotypes, and wellbeing that are shaped by social media platforms. AI-supported filters, edited imagery, and personalised recommendation systems influence what young people see online and how they understand beauty, success, and normality. While media literacy is formally anchored in many curricula, teachers often lack concrete concepts, materials, and training opportunities to address these developments in a way that connects technology, visual cultures, and psychosocial learning.

This paper presents the design of an educational programme that aims to support schools in responding to these challenges in a structured and sustainable way. The programme brings together several elements: hands-on workshops for students, professional development formats for teachers, and openly accessible teaching materials that can be adapted across school types and subjects. It focuses on building basic understanding of platform logics and AI-supported media, supporting critical reflection on social media cultures, and strengthening digital resilience in relation to self-image and body norms.

A central goal of the programme is long-term integration into school practice. For this reason, it includes modular learning units and ready-to-use resources. In addition, selected students are prepared as multipliers who can support peer learning and help anchor the topics within school communities.

The paper outlines the conceptual foundations, programme structure, and implementation strategy, and discusses how educational initiatives can move beyond isolated workshops towards school-wide approaches. It argues that effective responses to platform cultures require not only student-focused activities, but also systematic support for teachers and institutions. By embedding digital self-image education within existing school structures, the programme seeks to strengthen schools’ capacity to address emerging digital challenges in a wellbeing-oriented and gender-sensitive way.

Keywords:

Self-image, media literacy, social media culture, digital wellbeing, education.