Introduction
In today’s digital age, the rapid spread of misinformation poses a significant threat to society. With fake news circulating at unprecedented speeds, it has become increasingly crucial to equip individuals with the skills to discern fact from fiction. In response to this challenge, Trully Verify Africa, in partnership with the International Press Centre and supported by Vision Dr., organized a one-day fact-checking workshop titled “Co-creating antibodies to fake news.”
This workshop aimed to empower participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to become effective fact-checkers and contribute to a more informed public sphere.
Trully Verify Africa, in partnership with the International Press Centre (IPC) and supported by Vision Dr., successfully hosted a one-day Fact-Checking Workshop on July 19, 2024, at the IPC workstation in Ogba, Lagos. The workshop, aptly titled “Co-creating antibodies to fake news,” aimed to equip participants with the essential skills and tools to combat the proliferation of misinformation.
Trully Verify Africa, a leading organization dedicated to curbing misinformation through media and information literacy, brought its expertise to the forefront of this initiative. The workshop featured two key sessions:
Session One: Led by Ms. Omolola Pedro, this introductory session provided participants with a foundational understanding of fact-checking principles and its significance in today’s media landscape.
Session Two: Facilitated by Mr. Olusola Oludiran, this hands-on session delved into the practical application of fact-checking tools and techniques. Participants had the opportunity to learn about various digital resources and how to effectively utilize them to verify information.
Workshop Topics:
Workshop Overview and Details
The one-day Fact-Checking Workshop drew a diverse group of 12 participants, including journalists, students, civil society activists, and digital influencers.
The event provided a comprehensive overview of the fact-checking landscape, highlighting the challenges posed by misinformation and the crucial role of media literacy in combating it.
Key topics covered during the workshop included:
- Understanding Misinformation and Disinformation: Participants gained insights into the different types of false information, their spread mechanisms, and their impact on society.
- Fact-Checking Methodology: The workshop delved into essential fact-checking techniques, such as source verification, triangulation, and lateral reading.
- Leveraging Technology: Participants were introduced to a range of digital tools and platforms that can aid in fact-checking, including social media verification tools, image analysis software, and online databases.
- Identifying and Debunking Common Misinformation Tactics: The workshop exposed participants to common tactics used to spread false information, empowering them to identify and debunk such claims effectively. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants honed their fact-checking skills and developed a deeper understanding of the information ecosystem.
By the end of the workshop, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of:
The critical role of fact-checking in promoting accurate information and combating misinformation.
The various tactics employed by those who spread disinformation.
The importance of critical thinking and skepticism when consuming online content.
A range of digital tools and techniques for verifying information.