Fake news is common in today’s world and society. A little message or phrase can go viral in a matter of seconds. You can come across manipulated images of celebrities or other people, fake celebrity deaths shared by a troll account, and more. Fake news can be poisonous. According to John Spencer’s ‘The Problem With Fake News,’ “it’s not going away anytime soon.“. This opened my eyes and made me more aware of what we as humans may encounter online. When examining a post that appears questionable, it’s crucial to consider when the post was published. From where does this source originate? What is this source’s credibility?
According to the NCTE framework, “one of the main information sources of the modern era is the internet, so it is essential that learners learn how to participate and navigate the networked world.” Before they enter the technology/internet era, it can be helpful to prepare our students for the advantages and disadvantages of the internet and how it may impact them as individuals.
This year, I am enrolled in a first-grade class for my pre-internship. These children are still learning about the internet and media, despite the fact that it is pervasive and well-liked in our society. According to David Brown’s ‘How to Choose Your News,’ “Unless you know how to read the news, all the information in the world won’t be very useful.” Students in grade one are frequently learning how to write, spell, and sound out words. It is crucial to address the prevalence of fake news in our society, despite the fact that they might not be able to read it. Instructing students on how to stay safe when posting anything online is crucial. Watch what you click on and ask yourself, “Is this the most trustworthy source?” or “Is this a risky website?” Before they make a mistake, it’s critical to educate the children about the basics of the internet.