Disinformation, misinformation, hate speech, algorithms, artificial intelligence, deepfakes… So many pervasive concepts that shape our connected society. But what do these terms really mean? How do they impact our perception of the world and our behaviors? And most importantly, how can we respond to these complex challenges? Our interactive workshops, specially designed for 11th and 12th-grade students, offer an engaging exploration of these topics. In just two hours, we decode the mechanisms of disinformation, examine its dangers, and discuss concrete solutions to mitigate its influence. Participants learn to identify the traps of online information, understand their role in this digital ecosystem, and develop critical thinking skills to navigate the content they consume and share.

Workshop Overview:

Objective : This workshop aims to equip young people with the skills to identify and critically analyze misinformation in the digital age. Participants will learn to recognize fake news, understand the mechanics of disinformation, and navigate social media platforms responsibly.‍

‍

Target Audience : High school students and young adults who actively engage with digital content and social media.

‍

Facilitators : University students specializing in political science, law, communication, and other relevant fields. These facilitators are knowledgeable about social media trends, misinformation tactics, and existing AI tools used in information manipulation. Their age proximity to participants creates an environment of reciprocity and relatability.

‍

Key Components:

1. Introduction to Disinformation: Understanding what disinformation is, its impact on society, and how it spreads on social media.
2. Spotting Misinformation: Learning to identify fake news, deepfakes, and misleading content using real-world examples.
3. Social Media and AI Tools: Exploring how social media algorithms and AI tools contribute to the spread of misinformation.
4. Critical Thinking and Fact-Checking: Developing critical thinking skills and using digital tools to fact-check sources.
5. Interactive Exercises: Group discussions, role-playing scenarios, and quizzes to reinforce learning.
6. Empowering Civic Engagement: Encouraging participants to share their knowledge and contribute to a more informed digital community.

Workshop's experience: by the end of the workshop, participants will:

• Understand the different types of misinformation and disinformation.
• Be able to critically evaluate digital content and identify fake news.
• Gain practical skills in fact-checking and verifying online information.
• Feel empowered to navigate social media platforms responsibly and contribute positively to online discussions.

‍

‍