Item

From creators to critical thinkers: How middle schoolers learn to spot and stop false information through media production

Type
Journal Article
Author
Oluwadara Abimbade
Year
2025
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
DOI/Link
https://doi.org/10.1080/21532974.2025.2522067
Abstract
Today’s adolescents actively engage with media, not only as consumers but also as creators. Their media creation activities range from graphic design and video production to digital storytelling and game programming. These experiences enable youth to express their voices and promote individual and community development. However, media production also poses challenges, including the spread of misinformation and political polarization. This study investigates how an after-school critical media production boot camp can influence students’ understanding of false information and their behavior in creating and sharing false information. Employing both qualitative and quantitative methods, the study demonstrates how critical media literacy can empower middle school students to produce responsible media content. Findings reveal significant improvements in students’ abilities to identify and mitigate false information, fostering a sense of social responsibility in their media practices.
Language
English
Keywords
Information Literacy, Media Literacy, Critical Media Literacy, Misinformation and Disinformation
Tags
Critical thinking, Media consumption
PGDMIL Course
C02 – Media, Technology and Content
PGDMIL Block
C02-B2: Hybrid Media Cultures
Has Part
C02-U06: Influencer Culture and Content Creators
Corpus Status
Pending Review

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