Media/ Information/ Digital Literacy | Facilitating | Speaking | Consulting
Fact Vs. Fiction: Teaching Critical Thinking Skills in the Age of Fake News
In 2016, the term "fake news" gained prominence in politics and media discussions. Jennifer LaGarde and I recognized that this was not a new phenomenon, as propaganda had been very effective in the past. However, the rise of social media, algorithms, and smartphones enabled the amplification of any desired narrative. Rather than waiting for someone else to address the issue, we took it upon ourselves to assist educators, parents, and students in navigating this new media landscape by writing "Fact vs. Fiction."
Here is the description of Fact vs. Fiction:
Help students discern fact from fiction in the information they access at school and in the devices they carry in their pockets and backpacks.
The advent of the 24-hour news cycle, citizen journalism, and an increased reliance on social media as a trusted news source has had a profound effect not only on how we get our news but also on how we evaluate sources of information, share that information and interact with others in online communities. When these issues are coupled with the “fake news” industry that intentionally spreads false stories designed to go viral, educators face a new and challenging landscape. This book will help them address these new realities, providing strategies and support to help students develop the skills needed to effectively evaluate online information.
The book includes:
Instructional strategies for combating fake news, including models for evaluating news stories with links to resources on including lessons on fake news in your curricula.
Examples from prominent educators who demonstrate how to tackle fake news with students and colleagues.
A fake news self-assessment with a digital component to help readers evaluate their skills in detecting and managing fake news.
A downloadable infographic with mobile media literacy tips.
Fighting Fake News: Tools and Strategies for Teaching Media Literacy is the companion jump-start guide based on this book.
If you prefer to listen on Audible.
