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Why Misinformation Matters

Subtitle

Unit 1 Lesson 4

NOVA Science Studio is made possible (in part) by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.

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Overview

Students will identify what science misinformation is, the reasons why people share misinformation, and how we can use empathy as a way to combat it. Students will learn how misinformation about current events in 2020 to 2021 became widespread using a video from NOVA’s digital series, Misinformation Nation.

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Warm-Up

What do you know or have you heard about the idea of misinformation in the media as it relates to current events? �

  • Use boxes 1 and 2 of the KWLQ Organizer handout to record your prior knowledge and questions.

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What Is Science Misinformation?

There are four main reasons people share science misinformation:

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  1. The desire for human connection
  2. It matches our worldview
  3. It gives us hope
  4. It is funny

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Science misinformation is defined as a statement that contradicts what established science tells us to be true.

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What Is Science Misinformation?

Though we may be itching to scream from the rooftops about all the reasons a piece of misinformation is wrong/harmful/flat-out silly…..

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One thing we know is that telling people to SHUT UP = SHUT DOWN

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One of the greatest tools we have in our toolkit to beat misinformation is empathy.

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What Is Science Misinformation?

What is empathy?

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  • The ability to understand and share the feelings of another

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In combating scientific misinformation, it is important to practice empathy because when topics are polarizing, modeling behavior that shows that we are open can set the stage for a further dialogue with the people we disagree with.

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What Is Science Misinformation?

Treat a disagreement as if it were an interview instead of a debate. Ask questions so that people can reflect on their own reasonings.

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What Is Science Misinformation?

Here are some ways to mindfully practice empathy:

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  • Signaling with verbal or nonverbal cues that you are listening (nodding your head)�
  • Gently pushing back on claims, asking for the person to elaborate�
  • Listening in good faith versus listening to just respond

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Activity

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Watch the following video and fill out the rest of your KWLQ Organizer.

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Activity

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Reflect on the video and what you know about misinformation:�

  • Why might people disagree that a claim is misinformation?�
  • Why is misinformation a problem?�
  • Why is it important to distinguish between misinformation and disinformation?

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Wrap-Up

Access the comic “Why People Share Fake News with Dr. Dominique Broussard” online on Wordpress.

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Not all misinformation is meant to intentionally deceive. However, regardless of intent, it can cause major problems.

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Why is it important to have empathy in these situations?

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Extension Activity

Complete the handout Evaluating Misinformation, which includes two examples of information from the video.

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