Seeking Truth: Misinformation Impact Outcome
Seeking Truth: Misinformation
Students in the Seeking Truth: Misinformation Humanities Lab worked alongside faculty Laura Hosman, Associate Professor in the School for the Future of Innovation in Society, and Marie-Louise Paulesc, Faculty Head and Teaching Professor in the CISA School of Applied Sciences and Arts, along with librarian Mary Ann Naumann from E-Learning and Instruction, to better understand how misinformation spreads and how people learn to navigate information critically. Bringing together perspectives from across disciplines, students transformed their research into meaningful, real-world outcomes including low-tech classroom activities, interactive WhatsApp misinformation modules, and offline digital literacy tools designed to support accessible learning, critical thinking, and responsible information sharing across diverse communities.
Student Outcomes
CHEETAH in the Classroom
Students created an offline information literacy toolkit for classrooms and learning spaces using SolarSPELL libraries across sub Saharan Africa. Using the CHEETAH framework, the project introduced students to concepts like source credibility, evidence, trust, and misinformation through interactive games, classroom activities, and facilitator guides. Designed for low connectivity environments, the toolkit focused on making media literacy education more accessible, engaging, and discussion driven for both teachers and students. To learn more, click here.
Digital Misinformation on WhatsApp
Students designed an interactive learning module focused on helping users recognize and respond to misinformation shared through WhatsApp and similar messaging platforms. Using the CARDS method, the project guided users through ways to evaluate sources, identify clickbait, verify information, and practice responsible sharing habits. The team created interactive lessons, visual handouts, and step by step fact checking activities that made misinformation education approachable, accessible, and easy to understand for everyday users. For more information, click here.
SolarSPELL Digital Literacy Tools
Students developed a series of offline digital literacy resources designed to support SolarSPELL users in building confidence with technology and navigating information online. The project included interactive misinformation modules, game based quizzes, typing tutorial videos, and a fully offline typing practice tool created for low connectivity learning environments. By combining digital literacy, internet navigation, and misinformation awareness, the team focused on creating engaging and accessible tools that support both teachers and students through hands on learning experiences. To learn more, click here.
Spring 2026 Final Presentation Showcase
The Spring 2026 Seeking Truth: Misinformation final showcase, held on April 30, 2026, brought together faculty, librarians, collaborators, and Humanities Lab leadership to explore the projects students developed throughout the semester. Centered around the shared goal of addressing misinformation through accessible education, digital literacy, media literacy, and community engagement in low and limited connectivity environments, students presented interactive learning tools, offline educational resources, and community centered interventions shaped through interdisciplinary research and collaboration. During the event, students received feedback and encouragement on their work, and several expressed interest in continuing to develop their projects beyond the lab through future research, outreach, and implementation.
When I was a part of this lab, it reshaped the way I thought about misinformation, and I realized how prevalent it is in everyday life. With this new awareness, I changed how I engage with information, and it has led me to be more comfortable with the idea that it is okay to question any information you are given.
Erika Landa
B.A. in political science; Minoring in English Literature and Transborder Studies
Collaborative Partners
- Cassandra (Cassie) Barrett
- Rebecca Stuch
- Wen Wendt
- Spencer Danzig
- Eleanor (Ellie) Lindman
- Danae Bell
- Rachel Nova
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