Introduction & refresher: De Facto Framework
Let's start with a systematic refresher of content and concepts already introduced at the previous level of De Facto training. The terminology is explained in English and in the languages of the project partners on the website https://defacto.space. Throughout the course, you'll find hyperlinks to the English version of the respective content - switch to your language as it pleases you.
1. Definitions
As we talk a lot about misinformation and disinformation, we recommend you make a short visit to the terminology section of the De Facto website (https://defacto.space/reading-corner-terminology/). Please focus on the top part of the web page and make sure you have a renewed understanding of mis- and disinformation definitions.
Ability to quickly and easily differentiate between misinformation, disinformation and malinformation is an important part of media literacy/digital literacy competences.
2. Types of disinformation
De Facto developed a new framework of disinformation in education and training contexts. You can find detailed descriptions of each of the content type which we have identified at https://defacto.space/io1-a/. You can click on each content type for examples, or you can go directly to the full (all content types) webpage with examples: https://defacto.space/io1-g/
Well-designed case studies feature a wide variety of content types. This makes case studies look and feel realistically.
3. Major disinformation categories
You can refresh your memory of the disinformation categories from the corresponding webpage (https://defacto.space/io1-b/). Alternatively, you can use a digital flip card from the set of cognitive imprints cards which you have received during your initial training. These digital flip cards are available at https://defacto.space/cognitive-imprints-cards-set/.
The cards will be of help throughout the course activities. Solid knowledge of major disinformation categories will inform your selection of resources for the case studies.
4. Motivation
An extended version of the content-type matrix (https://defacto.space/io1-c/) is focusing on the possible motivations behind creating and spreading disinformation.
Understanding what may be the motivation behind an item of disinformation is a key skill in understanding disinformation as a phenomenon. Learners in class will be able to relate to such motivations and see how they impact and shape one's actions.
5. Education-related layers and harm potential of the content types
Several unique layers are added to the content types matrix (https://defacto.space/io1-d/). These layers demonstrate the impact mechanism and the harm potential of each content type.
These layers are very helpful in identifying disinformation by shedding light on additional properties of disinformation. Well-designed case studies focus on such properties or markers so that learners can be more attentive to these markers.
6. The Eggshell model to analyse information and determine credibility
The model is available via https://defacto.space/io1-f/ and from the digital flip card set (https://defacto.space/cognitive-imprints-cards-set/). It provides a comprehensive assessment frame which can be applied to any content type.
The Eggshell model is a practical tool which can be integrated in the case studies and help learners develop basic media literacy and digital literacy skills. The model, in part or in full, should be applied to all resources linked to a case study.
7. Information mediums of information carriers
As presented here (https://defacto.space/io1-e/), this should refresh your knowledge on the full range of information mediums/carriers.
Use the lists from this section to make sure that your case study has content that spans numerous mediums or carrriers. This makes a case study more realistic and engaging.
8. Other helpful resources
De Facto Home page also includes fast navigation to other areas, such as the Disinformation Games (case studies) and the Collection of tools, all relevant and appropriate for integration in your coursework!