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Fact-checking, fake news, and disinformation
In this section we look at the essential task of fact-checking information to ensure that all we publish and broadcast is accurate. We also examine how to spot fake news, and how to deal with disinformation and misinformation. We consider the topic of information disorder in all its forms, and how to handle post-truth content shared on social media.
Fact-checking and adding context
An essential part of the editorial process is to examine everything we are told to make sure it is factual.
Creating a fact-checking system
It’s the job of the journalist to try to find and present the truth, but fact-checking isn't easy. It requires a methodological approach to verification.
Beyond basic fact-checking
Fact-checking is a complex, evidence-based process which goes beyond simple verification, demanding critical thinking and contextual analysis.
The importance of diverse perspectives
Diverse perspectives and facts are vital for accurate journalism, helping to reveal the true complexity behind the news through varied viewpoints.
SIFT for fact-checking
Journalists who are committed to fact-checking, as we should all be, have several methods available to help them deal with fake news.
Examining rumour to find facts
The role of a journalist is to publish facts. To do that they often have to examine rumour and gossip as part of the newsgathering process.
Fake news and trust chains
"Fake news" encompasses two distinct concepts: fabricated stories masquerading as truth and the dismissal of legitimate news as false.
Understanding post-truth in journalism
For journalists, post-truth represents a critical challenge to our core mission of informing the public with accurate, verified information. Here we look at how journalists should handle post-truth content.
Disinformation and misinformation
Journalists attempting to deal with 'fake news' need to understand the difference between disinformation and misinformation.
Information disorder – mapping the landscape
Information disorder is everywhere according to journalist Claire Wardle. Here she sets out the categories that reporters need to be aware of and research.
Forms of information disorder
With the spread of fake news, journalists need to recognise and understand the different categories, types, elements, and phases of information disorder.
The glossary of Information disorder
The following information disorder glossary is designed to help journalists understand the most common terms used.
Detecting AI-generated images
How can journalists identifying fake photographs with so many dramatic images being shared at speed on social media.
Evidence-based reporting
This guide provides a framework for journalists to compile in-depth reports on any topic by ensuring that all they write is based on verifiable facts.
Lateral reading
When it comes to fact-checking and adding context to news articles, journalists need to apply ‘lateral reading’ in order to broaden their knowledge.
Journalism and propaganda
Journalists must recognise propaganda to avoid spin and deliver factual news. Ensuring the public is properly informed is essential for credible journalism.
Related learning resources
Quick Guide: Fact-checking and adding context
Journalism isn't just relaying information, it's about rigorous fact-checking. A vital editorial step is scrutinising every detail to ensure accuracy.
Exercise: Fact-checking in news
True journalism requires more than just gathering news. We rigorously examine every detail to maintain the highest factual standards.
Exercise: Understanding post-truth in journalism
For journalists, post-truth represents a critical challenge to our core mission of informing the public with accurate, verified information. This exercise deals with some...
Workshop: Fact checking and adding context
Journalism isn't just about gathering and passing on facts. A vital part of the editorial process is adding context to provide a much deeper understanding.
Lesson: Fact-checking and adding context
This lesson plan is designed to teach students how to fact-check then add context so that the information produced in a news report is accurate and complete.
Lesson: Beyond basic fact-checking
Journalists who have mastered basic fact-checking skills need to develop systems for dealing with all forms of fake news.
Lesson: Fake news and trust chains
This lesson plan is designed to help journalists recognise the different types of 'fake news' and discover how to use 'trust chains' to deal with them.
Lesson: Journalism and propaganda
This lesson plan is designed to help journalists recognise the different propaganda and discover ways to deal with it when covering news.
Module: Foundations of fact-checking
This free educational module provides an outline for a six-week course teaching students about fact-checking in a world of information disorder.
Refresher: Fact-checking for journalists
This compressed one-day course provides an intensive overview of the essentials considerations for journalists regarding fact-checking and combating information disorder in the digital age.
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