After having dealt with the foundations of “fake news” and having become familiar with different methods of disinformation the aim of the second module is to enable youngsters to deal with them.
After having dealt with the foundations of “fake news” and having become familiar with different methods of disinformation the aim of the second module is to enable youngsters to deal with them.
They shall learn about methods and standards in science and journalism that determine the quality of information. Furthermore, the youngsters should acquire skills in debunking “fake news” and fact checking information. Eventually, the module should teach youngsters in critical thinking.
The first objective is to shed light on the work of journalists, their methods and standards to safeguard that the presented information is in line with reality. Youngsters learn how quality journalism is working and develop a deeper understanding on which grounds journalistic outlets can be criticized. In this context, youngsters also learn the difference between facts and opinions.
Furthermore, youngsters are given an understanding about scientific methods as a means to capture reality. Youngsters learn how scientific methods enable us to judge the truth content of certain assertions. In fact, they undergo an elementary training in scientific methodologies and the philosophy of science.
The second objective of this module is to shed light on methods of debunking “fake news” and verifying information. Youngsters are given practical advice and receive practical training how such fact checking is taking place.
The third objective is to widen the perspective again and to engage in a broader discussion about Critical Thinking.
Here, they learn, in particular why it is generally important to change perspectives and apply logical reasoning before judging anything – may this be a text, a picture, a video but also a person or certain decisions in politics.
