Curriculum
Course: Information, Media & Technology skills
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Curriculum

Information, Media & Technology skills

Information Literacy

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Media Literacy

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Text lesson

Competencies for understanding and evaluating media

 

  1. Assessing the Source:
    Always verify the credibility of a website or media outlet before trusting the information it provides. Reliable sources adhere to high editorial standards and ethical practices, while less credible outlets may spread misinformation.

    • Start by examining the “About Us” section or researching the publisher’s reputation.

    • Investigate the author’s background, expertise, and any potential biases.

    • Even reputable sources can make mistakes, so approach every piece of information with a critical mindset.

  2. Recognising Media Bias:
    All media content carries some level of bias, shaped by the author’s personal beliefs, values, and perceptions.

    • Be aware of how these biases influence narratives and viewpoints.

    • To gain a balanced perspective, read multiple sources, including those with differing viewpoints.

    • Avoid forming opinions based solely on a single source of information.

  3. Fact-Checking Information:
    Verifying the accuracy of information is a fundamental aspect of media literacy.

    • Use reliable fact-checking websites like Snopes or FactCheck.org to validate claims.

    • Cross-check information across multiple credible sources and prioritize primary sources whenever possible.

    • Regularly practicing these techniques improves your ability to spot inaccuracies.

  4. Understanding Algorithms:
    Algorithms on social media and search engines shape what content you see by analysing your preferences and behavior.

    • This creates a “filter bubble” that limits exposure to diverse viewpoints.

    • Be mindful of how algorithms influence your perspective and actively seek content from different sources to break out of this bubble.

    • Question algorithm-driven results to make more informed decisions.

  5. Identifying Misinformation:
    Misinformation often takes the form of sensationalist headlines, unverified claims, or emotionally charged content designed to manipulate readers.

    • Look for inconsistencies, lack of credible sources, and errors in grammar or spelling.

    • Check publication dates to avoid sharing outdated or miscontextualized content.

  6. Evaluating Website Quality:
    A website’s design and content quality can provide clues about its credibility.

    • Trustworthy sites typically have a professional appearance, clear navigation, and well-written articles.

    • Beware of poorly designed websites with excessive ads or unclear author details.

    • Domains like .gov or .edu are often more reliable, but always consider other factors when assessing credibility.