DL 6 information literacy

The vast amounts of online information that we are constantly exposed to present both opportunities and challenges for us as learners. What steps can we take to critically assess the information for accuracy and reliability? What strategies can help us effectively distinguish credible content from those sponsored by advertisers, promotional materials, opinion pieces, and misinformation? What methods can we use to mitigate potential biases and limitations posed by algorithms that rank information and manipulate its visibility? How can we systematically practice these vital skills for making informed decisions and navigating the digital world?

1. Explore and Reflect:

Think about how your your research goals dictate different selection strategy when using search engine results.

Begin by watching the COR* episode on lateral reading to consider different strategies for selecting search results.

* Civic Online Reasoning lessons, assessments and videos (3:47:00)

 

Tips to Avoid Bias, when Evaluating Digital Sources:

Use Multiple Search Engines:

To get a more comprehensive view, use different search engines (e.g., Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo). Each search engine has its own algorithm, which can help you find a wider range of information and reduce the risk of missing important perspectives. 

Check Credibility:

Evaluate the reliability of the sources you find. Look for information from reputable organizations, academic institutions, and established news outlets. Check the author’s credentials, publication date, and whether the information is supported by evidence.

Cross-Reference Information:

Verify the information by cross-referencing it with other credible sources to ensure its accuracy. If multiple reputable sources report the same facts, the information is more likely to be accurate.

Be critical

of the information presented and consider the potential motivations behind it. Look for multiple viewpoints on the same topic to get a balanced understanding.

Reflect on Your Own Biases:

Be mindful of your own biases and how they might affect your interpretation of information. Try to approach your research with an open mind and be willing to adjust your views based on new, credible evidence.

Consider Algorithm Influence:

Search engines and social media platforms use algorithms to rank and display information. These algorithms can prioritize certain results based on factors like popularity, user behavior, and advertising. This means that some information might be more visible while other relevant content could be buried. 

2. Practice

Implement the strategies for mitigating potential biases in digital search and selection of relevant  information:

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Share your evaluations and expertise

Instructions:

1. Select a Digital Source: Choose a digital source relevant to your field of study or interest. This could be an article, website, video, or any other online content.

2. Evaluate the Source: Analyze the selected source using a structured evaluation method. Consider the following criteria:
– Authority: Who is the author or creator? What are their credentials?
– Accuracy: Is the information supported by evidence? Are there references or citations?
– Bias: Is the content objective, or does it show any bias?
– Currency: Is the information up-to-date?
– Relevance: How relevant is the source to your topic or research?

3. Document Your Evaluation: Write and a brief summary of your evaluation. Include the following sections:
– Describe the source you selected.
– Discuss each of the evaluation criteria and your findings.
–  Summarize your overall assessment of the source.

4. Share with Peers: Post your evaluation report using the SUBMIT button. See your message posted in the repository of “Completed Challenges”. Read and provide feedback on the other participants’ evaluations.

By completing this task, you will enhance your skills in critically evaluating digital sources and learn from your peers’ experiences.

 

 

Resources

 

Civic Online Reasoning lessons, assessments and videos. (Create a free account to access)

Basics of Evaluating Online Sources (enroll in a 1-Module Course)

Civic Online Reasoning (enroll in a 3-Module Course)

• Module 1: Search Like a Fact Checker with Lateral Reading
• Module 2: Verifying Claims on Social Media and Click Restraint
• Module 3: Evaluating Different Types of Online Sources

 

Here are some websites that specialize in uncovering recent fakes and misinformation, these resources can help you stay informed and verify the credibility of the information you encounter:

• FactCheck.org: is dedicated to fact-checking and debunking false claims across various topics, including politics, health, and viral social media posts.
• Snopes.com: is a well-known fact-checking website that investigates rumors, myths, and misinformation circulating online.
• PolitiFact: focuses on fact-checking statements made by politicians and public figures, providing a “Truth-O-Meter” rating to indicate the accuracy of the claims.

 

These resources can help you identify and understand the nature of false and fake publications.

• Fake papers are contaminating the world’s scientific literature, fueling a corrupt industry and slowing legitimate lifesaving medical research
• Notice how much effort it takes to uncover misinformation 50 Examples of Fake News in 2024 – Just Facts Daily

• List of fake news websites – Wikipedia