Media Literacy Resources

As you know, our work at A More Perfect Union is focused on protecting and strengthening American democracy. As part of our free and fair elections work, we’ve spent the last few years listening to and learning from experts about the importance of media literacy and misinformation/disinformation, especially on social media and in times of heightened tension. Given the rapid and troubling circulation of misinformation related to the Israel-Hamas war, we’ve put together some resources to use or share as we continue to navigate these troubled waters. 

If we can offer support on this topic, please reach out. Our network is still accepting new partners and we plan to continue expanding our expertise and offerings in this area. In the meantime, we are considering putting together a virtual discussion with experts about misinformation, disinformation, and media literacy. If you or your organization would benefit from this, please fill out this form.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO FACT-CHECK A SPECIFIC PIECE OF NEWS OR INFORMATION, YOU CAN VISIT:

News Literacy Resources

The News Literacy Project has a number of resources to help us evaluate information as well as support educators and parents in discussing misinformation with students of all ages. 

Related resources from other reliable sources:

What is Misinformation?

Not all bad information is created equal. Experts distinguish among three types of bad information to help better diagnose and evaluate what you see: 

  • Misinformation: Information that is false, but not created or shared with intent to cause harm. 

  • Malinformation: Information that is based on fact, but used out of context to mislead, harm, or manipulate. 

  • Disinformation: False information that is deliberately created to mislead, harm, or manipulate.

These definitions from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) help to buffer people against manipulative content. CISA encourages news and social media consumers to watch out for emotionally manipulative content designed to make us angry or sad, including posts that use sensational terms intended to cause mistrust and division among large groups of people. You can also read their guide “Disinformation Stops With You.” 

How Can I Correct Misinformation?

According to Teddy Amenabar of The Washington Post, even when a source of information is known to be unreliable, research shows that people will start to believe a claim if it is repeated often enough. He offers the following tips for debunking false claims made by friends and family:

  • Start with friendship, not facts

  • Don’t become emotional

  • Keep online messages short

  • Ask: ‘Where did you learn that?’

  • Set the record straight in the family group text

  • Be willing to walk away

  • Remember that changing minds takes time

Read the tips in full from The Washington Post. 

Experts on Misinformation

If you are looking for more about media, news, or information literacy, consider the following organizations:

The Jewish Partnership for Democracy is actively accepting new partners through the end of 2023. Ready to join this vibrant community?