Misinformation and the changing news environment (1 cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Content scheduling

ma 16.1. klo 9-16 – in-person workshop on Lemminkäisenkatu campus, B171 Aino.
ma 23.1. klo 9-16 - remote learning seminar with small group sessions via Zoom

A workshop focused on the impact of digital communications and social media on journalism, the rise of "fake news," and breaking through filter bubbles and confirmation bias to create a well-informed public.

Through this workshop, we will explore the impact that digital and electronic media has had on society in terms of the spread of information and its implications for public discourse.

We will trace the emergence of the electronic nervous system and how technology-enabled communications transformed the news industry, and how information is collected, distributed, and consumed.

In particular, we will explore how by connecting disparate groups of like-minded individuals (i.e., the ”long tail”), social media has helped drive social change while also giving rise to divisive factionalism through targeted misinformation campaigns.

We will then delve into the long-term implications of this change and how it has irreparably altered the form, function, and behavior of not just the news media but of social interactions between individuals and established institutions.

This workshop will be taught using a mixture of formal instruction, discussion, and small group assignments. As part of small group discussions, students will be asked to examine the role of technology firms, media organizations, industry regulators, and individuals in this current environment.

Objective

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Recognize the signs and markers of “fake news” stories
• Identify opportunities to improve the role of media in the new environment
• Understand the role they can play to reduce the spread of misinformation and enhance civil discourse

Content

Students will gain an understanding of the impact of digital and electronic technologies on journalism and society, including:
• How social media and digital communications have changed the news industry, including an overview of current models for news organizations
• The impact of social media, the long tail, and filter bubbles on civil discourse
• How social media and digital communications can be used to drive social change
• The role of information gatekeepers and how misinformation spreads through digital channels
• How businesses, regulators, and individuals can navigate this rapidly changing environment

Evaluation methods and criteria

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

• Complete all assignments prior to attending class
• Be an active and responsible participant – in both class and as part of your assigned group
• Arrive at class on time with all the required materials ready for submission, presentation, or discussion

ANTICIPATED ASSIGNMENTS

Individual Class Participation: Your participation grade is based on participation, not just attendance. To an “Excellent” grade you, you must make significant contributions to classroom discussions – both individually and through in-class breakout groups -- that show that you grasp the key concepts and can apply them to real-world issues. This will represent 30% of your grade.

Group Presentation: Each group will be expected to make a presentation help drive and inform the conversation on the morning of the 23rd of January. Groups will be assigned their presentation topics during class on the 16th of January.

Each presentation will involve the development of 5-10 slides and a “group” presentation on the topic. All members of the group are expected to participate in this group presentation. This will represent 70% of your grade.