"Is it really true?" News literacy and fact-checking as catalysts for critical citizenship
Young people increasingly turn to social media (including Facebook) and news aggregators (including Google) for news. Precisely these platforms are under fire as conduits of large amounts of fake news. Are young people able to deal with (fake) news on social media in a 'wise' way?
Governments, media and various public-oriented organisations are concerned about the impact of fake news on citizenship. Those without the right information find it difficult to form informed opinions on social issues.
It is therefore important for young people to adopt a critical attitude towards news disseminated on social media. In this study, we explored young people's attitudes towards consuming news via Facebook and Google. We examined their knowledge about algorithms and filter bubbles, among other things, which determine the selection of news on these platforms. We also studied their attitudes towards fake news and fact-checking. In addition, we also focus this proposal on expert organisations and how they can be supported in sensitising, informing and socialising young people towards fake news and the importance of fact-checking.
Research realisations and publications
Edubox fake news
The EDUbox Fake News was developed together with VRT and Mediawijs. The tool can be used for secondary school pupils.
Research report
Fake news and Facebook. News wisdom of Flemish young people aged 15 to 24 examined.
Research report
Young people and fake news. Who helps young people frame fake news and recognise fake news?
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