Case Study “Common Types of Information Disorder” (IMI-M1-02-EN)

• To raise awareness on information disorder
• To discuss the most common types of information disorder
• To stimulate reflection
• To raise discussion on the causes and other influences regarding belief in information disorder

• Students
• Adolescent youth
• Educators, trainers, councillors, youth workers
• Any citizen

The activity is based on the video “Examples of the seven most common types of information disorder” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kGStjMqDtM) by Alastair Reid,  a Digital Editor, who dwells on the different types of content being created and shared, the motivations of those who create it, and how it spreads.

Introduction (5 minutes)

The facilitator gathers the participants together and explains why they shall be watching the video as well as the themes or concepts they should pay attention to.

Group Video-watching (5 minutes)

The facilitator plays the video for the group making sure that everyone can see and hear properly. The participants are asked to take notes on key points, observations, or questions that arise during the video.

Debriefing (5 minutes) 

After the video, the facilitator initiates a discussion by asking open-ended questions that encourage critical thinking and analysis. The participants are stimulated to share their observations, reactions, and interpretations of the video as well as their own experience about information disorder.

• Electronic appliance (s) with Internet Access
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kGStjMqDtM
• Sheets of paper and pens/pencils
• Flipchart

• Active viewing and listening
• (Self-)Reflection
• Discussion

• Start the activity with a 5-munute introduction, explaining the mode of conduct within the group – respect, tolerance, listening without interruption
• Suggestions for debriefing questions:

How can information disorder affect individuals and communities? In your opinion, what are the most significant consequences of spreading misinformation online? What factors contribute to the rapid spread of misinformation on social media platforms? Do you think certain groups or individuals are more susceptible to believing misinformation? Why or why not? What strategies do you think are effective in combating misinformation and improving media literacy? How can schools and educational institutions play a role in promoting media literacy among students?

The subtitles of the video can be auto-translated. Instructions: Go to the Settings, choose Subtitles/CC, enable auto-translate (last option) and choose your language. If auto-translate option does not appear, choose first English (auto-generated) and then auto-translate.

Reid, Alastair (2020), Examples of the seven most common types of information disorder,  Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9kGStjMqDtM

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