Active learning ideas
Fake News and Regulation addresses the 'dark side' of the digital revolution. Students investigate the rise of misinformation, 'deepfakes,' and the challenges of regulating a global, borderless internet. This topic explores the tension between 'freedom of speech' and the need to protect the public from harmful content. Students will debate the role of UK regulators like IPSO (for newspapers) and Ofcom (for broadcasting).
Activity 01
Provide groups with three 'viral' news stories (two real, one fake). They must use digital tools and 'lateral reading' techniques to verify the sources and present their evidence to the class.
Why is fake news so prevalent on social media?
Activity 02
Students act as a government committee questioning 'representatives' from a major social media platform about their failure to remove fake news. They must debate whether the platform is a 'publisher' or just a 'host.'
How can audiences verify the credibility of online information?
Activity 03
Students watch a deepfake video. They pair up to discuss the potential dangers (e.g., political manipulation) and potential benefits (e.g., in film production) before sharing their thoughts with the class.
What are the limitations of current media regulation?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Fake news is always easy to spot.
Modern fake news often uses 'half-truths' and high production values to look professional. A 'spot the difference' activity with real and fake news sites helps students see how sophisticated misinformation has become.
The government can just 'turn off' the internet.
Regulation is incredibly difficult because social media companies are global and often based in the US. Debating the 'Online Safety Act' helps students understand the legal and technical hurdles of regulation.
Methods used in this brief
The Evolution of Print Journalism
A study of the changing landscape of newspapers in the UK. Students will compare broadsheets and tabloids, analysing their distinct news values and political leanings.
8 methodologies
Participatory Culture and Social Media
Students examine the rise of citizen journalism and user-generated content. They will apply Clay Shirky's 'End of Audience' theory to modern digital platforms.
8 methodologies