Malign Influence and Disinformation

(click here for preview)

Course Title: Counter Malign Influence and Misinformation

Course Level: Level 7 Master’s Course Virtual or In-person (click here to register)

Continuing Professional Education Credits: 8.5 hours

Course Description:

This course provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively counter the spread of disinformation and problematic influence in the digital age. Drawing on the concept of epistemic injustice, participants will learn to identify and critically engage with sources of misinformation, understanding the marginalization of certain groups and perspectives in the production and dissemination of knowledge. Through a comprehensive training outline, participants will develop the ability to assess credibility, cultivate critical thinking skills, and navigate the impact of cognitive biases and heuristics. By the end of the seminar, participants will be equipped with the tools to combat the harmful effects of disinformation and misinformation on society, fostering a more informed and resilient public discourse.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

·????????Identify and recognize various forms of problematic influence and disinformation in the digital landscape.

·????????Assess the credibility and reliability of information sources, including identifying potential biases and hidden agendas.

·????????Apply critical thinking skills to critically engage with and analyze information, distinguishing between factual and misleading content.

·????????Understand the concept of epistemic injustice and its impact on producing and disseminating knowledge, recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives.

·????????Develop strategies to counter the spread of disinformation and misinformation, both as an individual and within institutional contexts, promoting a more informed and responsible digital society.

Course Outline:

I. Introduction

A. Explanation of the problem of disinformation and problematic influence

B. Overview of the theoretical framework based on the concept of epistemic injustice

C. Goals of the training seminar

II. Understanding Epistemic Injustice

A. Definition and explanation of the concept of epistemic injustice

B. Discussion of how epistemic injustice can lead to the spread of disinformation and problematic influence

C. Examples of marginalized groups and perspectives in the production and dissemination of knowledge

III. Identification of Problematic Influence

A. Explanation of the different forms of problematic influence

B. Techniques for identifying problematic influence, including fact-checking and source verification

C. Discussion of the role of social media algorithms in the spread of disinformation

IV. Assessment of Credibility

A. Criteria for assessing credibility, including expertise, trustworthiness, and transparency

B. Discussion of the limitations of relying on traditional news sources and the need to diversify sources of information

C. Strategies for evaluating the credibility of online sources, including checking the domain name and examining the author's credentials

V. Cultivation of Critical Thinking Skills

A. Explanation of the importance of critical thinking in countering disinformation and problematic influence

B. Techniques for cultivating critical thinking skills, including questioning assumptions, evaluating evidence, and considering alternative perspectives

C. Practice exercises for developing critical thinking skills, such as fact-checking exercises and group discussions

Assessment:

Participants will be assessed based on their participation in discussions and activities throughout the seminar. They will also be required to develop an action plan or implement resilience-building measures in their communities, which the instructor will review.

Course Materials:

·????????PowerPoint Slides for each section

·????????Handouts on key concepts and case studies

·????????Relevant research papers and reports

References:

·????????Fricker, M. (2019). Epistemic Injustice: Power and the Ethics of Knowing. Oxford University Press.

·????????Kahneman, D. (2011). Thinking, Fast and Slow. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

·????????Sunstein, C. R. (2017). #Republic: Divided Democracy in the Age of Social Media. Princeton University Press.

·????????Wardle, C., & Derakhshan, H. (2017). Information Disorder: Toward an Interdisciplinary Framework for Research and Policy Making. Council of Europe.

Course Delivery:

This course will be delivered through lectures, discussions, and interactive activities. Participants will be encouraged to engage in peer learning through small group discussions and exercises. The course will be delivered online through a learning management system (LMS), and participants will have access to course materials and resources through the LMS.

Prerequisites:

This course is designed for individuals with a basic understanding of digital media and information consumption. Prior knowledge of critical thinking principles and media literacy concepts would be beneficial. Participants should also have an open mindset and a willingness to critically examine their beliefs and biases.

?

Target Audience:

This training is ideal for professionals and individuals from diverse backgrounds who interact with information personally or professionally. It is suitable for journalists, educators, researchers, policymakers, and anyone interested in combating the spread of disinformation and problematic influence. The training applies to both beginners seeking to build a foundational understanding and those with some prior knowledge looking to enhance their skills in countering misinformation.

?

Course Credits:

Upon course completion, participants will receive a level 7 Master’s Course Certificate with 8 hours of Continuing Professional Education credit.

?

Course Fee:

The course fee is $295 per participant.

?

Note:

The syllabus is subject to change based on the latest research and developments in the field of climate change.?