EXP 1114 - Communication & Media in the Age of Misinformation

Credits: 3

Explorations Courses focus on enduring questions. Enduring questions do not have easy answers; instead, they encourage examination of complex issues from multiple perspectives, introspection, evidence-based arguments, and learning how to respectfully discuss controversial and difficult topics. While the term “fake news” has become a buzzword in recent years, misinformation, including disinformation (defined as misinformation that is created and spread by those who have intention to deceive others) has always been a significant threat to individuals and society. With current communication technologies, it has become even more challenging to combat misinformation. In this course, students will learn about the characteristics, functionality, and usage of communication technologies and understand how they shape the current media environment. Also, this course will explore the interdisciplinary approaches to the study of the causes, consequences, and tenacity of misinformation in different contexts. Ultimately, with a better understanding of communication technologies and misinformation, students will develop a set of concrete, potential solutions, interventions, or projects that might help people identify and trust sources of truth, that might prevent the spread of misinformation, or/and that might effectively correct. Students will also examine the Merrimack Connections curriculum.
Fulfills: SOSC in LS Core