Media and digital literacy

Audiences who consume media are often overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information and messages they receive daily, and in many cases are unable to distinguish facts from falsehoods, and it is arguable they may not even be aware of the need to do so. Disinformation actors and anti-migrant groups have found fertile ground in the digital sphere for the spread of toxic content targeting migrants, refugees and other minorities - and it's doing real harm, spreading fear and xenophobia, damaging social cohesion, and in some cases inciting violence against vulnerable groups.  In that context, having the critical thinking capacity and the digital skills to navigate the digital world has never been more important for media professionals - so much of what we do in our daily lives now takes place online. The journalist and founder of Storyful, Mark Little, describes the role of journalists in the digital world as "separating the news from the noise".This module will look at a range of issues including media and digital literacy, mis-and disinformation, and how to developed critical skills and capacities such as verification; curation; and using user generated content to report online, particularly on migration issues. Through the lessons, you will develop your knowledge and understanding of issues including misinformation and disinformation targeting migrants, as well as acquiring a critical awareness of how migrants and other minorities are framed by rogue actors and populist media. You will also develop requisite skills to work professionally and ethically.