TACKLING DISINFORMATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA

 

1. Basic Information

Method Title: Tackling Disinformation on Social Media

Author / Organisation: Original Erasmus+ Project Consortium (Upskilling parents)

Country: European / Transnational

Theme / Topic: Digital Competences; Media Literacy; Critical Thinking; Online Safety

Keywords / Tags: disinformation, fake news, media literacy, digital skills, social media, fact-checking, CRAAP test, critical thinking, source evaluation

CIVIKI Pillars

Primary Pillar: Digital Competences

Secondary Pillars: Critical Thinking; Civic Engagement & Active Citizenship

 

2. Overview

Short Description

This method helps adult learners recognise and critically evaluate misinformation and disinformation on social media. Through interactive quizzes, group discussions and practical source evaluation using the CRAAP test, participants strengthen their digital literacy and develop strategies for identifying reliable information online.

Purpose of the Method

To improve participants’ ability to critically assess online information, recognise misinformation, and make informed decisions when using digital media.

Learning Outcomes

Participants:

  • understand the difference between misinformation and reliable information;
  • recognise common characteristics of fake news;
  • apply critical thinking when evaluating online content;
  • use the CRAAP method to assess information sources;
  • improve their digital and media literacy skills;
  • become more responsible digital citizens.

 

3. Target Group

Target Group:

Adult learners, educators, parents, community members, volunteers and anyone interested in improving digital and media literacy.

Age Range:

18+

Group Size:

8–25 participants

Required Prior Knowledge:

Basic digital skills and experience using the internet or social media.

 

4. Practical Details

Duration:

Approximately 90 minutes

Setting (online / offline / hybrid):

Offline, online or hybrid

Group Work / Individual:

Combination of trainer input, individual work and group work.

Materials / Tools Needed:

  • Projector
  • Flipchart
  • Printed CRAAP evaluation worksheet
  • Internet access
  • Computers, tablets or smartphones
  • MindMeister (optional)
  • Sticky notes and markers

 

5. Method Description (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Introduction to Misinformation

The facilitator introduces the concepts of misinformation and disinformation, explaining how false or misleading information spreads through social media and why it can influence public opinion and decision-making.

The facilitator uses recent examples of misinformation, preferably examples that are relevant to the participants and their current media environment.

Step 2: Fake or Fact Quiz

Participants complete one or more online quizzes individually or in pairs to explore how easily misinformation can be mistaken for factual information. The results are discussed in plenary.

Step 3: Introduction to Critical Thinking

The facilitator explains the importance of critical thinking and introduces the CRAAP method for evaluating information sources (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy and Purpose).

Step 4: Group Analysis of Online Content

Participants work in small groups to identify examples of misinformation from different online sources (e.g. social media, news websites or discussion forums).

Where possible, participants use recent examples from local news or social media that are familiar or relevant to their own context.

Using the CRAAP worksheet, they analyse each example and create a simple mind map summarising their findings.

Step 5: Presentation and Discussion

Each group presents its analysis. Participants compare their evaluations, discuss differences and identify indicators of trustworthy and unreliable information.

Step 6: Reflection

The facilitator concludes with a discussion on how critical evaluation of information contributes to responsible digital citizenship and encourages participants to apply these skills in their everyday online activities.

 

6. Pedagogical Approach

Methods used:

Interactive lecture, quiz-based learning, collaborative learning, critical thinking exercises, source evaluation, group discussion and reflective learning.

Why this approach is effective:

The method combines theoretical input with practical application. By analysing real online content, participants immediately apply critical thinking and digital literacy skills to authentic situations, making the learning highly relevant to everyday life.

 

7. Inclusion & Accessibility

How inclusion is ensured

The activity combines visual, verbal and collaborative learning approaches and encourages active participation regardless of previous educational experience.

Adaptations for disadvantaged groups

  • Use simple language.
  • Provide printed examples instead of requiring internet searches if necessary.
  • Offer additional facilitator support.
  • Adapt digital tools according to participants’ digital confidence.
  • Use examples from local news or social media that are relevant to participants.

 

8. Sustainability Aspect

Although the method primarily focuses on digital literacy, it contributes to the sustainability of democratic societies by promoting informed decision-making, responsible media consumption and resilience against misinformation.

 

9. Evaluation & Feedback

Evaluation Methods

  • Observation of participation
  • Results of the quizzes
  • Group presentations
  • Reflection discussion

Tools Used

  • Self-reflection
  • Peer feedback
  • Facilitator observation

 

10. Output / Result

Final Outcome

Participants develop stronger digital literacy skills and are able to critically evaluate online information using the CRAAP method and other fact-checking strategies.

 

11. Transferability

The method can be applied in adult education, civic education, digital literacy training, community learning, media literacy workshops and professional development programmes. It can easily be adapted to current topics, emerging social media platforms and different learner groups.

 

12. Additional Resources