At a time when the online space is flooded with information messages of varying nature and quality, media literacy and critical thinking are key skills for the younger generation. iQLANDIA, a science center in Liberec, has risen to this challenge by focusing on media education, particularly on the issues of misinformation and the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The Disinformation Hunters program for 9th graders and 1st and 2nd graders in secondary schools, along with a new exhibition dedicated to AI, offers students and the general public interactive experiences. These initiatives aim to develop critical information analysis skills and raise awareness of the risks associated with disinformation and new technologies.
The Disinformation Hunters program for Grade 9 and Years 1 and 2 in secondary schools
The program incorporates tools like Google Lens and Google Maps (Street View) for fact-checking. The program also focuses on the use of generative AI, featuring demonstrations of creating photorealistic portraits and videos. Students learn how to analyze messages by asking WHO, WHAT, WHY, and HOW questions, while examining images, videos, and sounds that may have been edited or manipulated. The program also includes a demonstration of the possibilities of generative artificial intelligence in creating photorealistic portraits and videos.
Exposure to artificial intelligence
In addition to the Disinformation Hunters program, iQLANDIA features a new exhibition dedicated to artificial intelligence. In this section, visitors can gain hands-on experience with AI applications and principles, exploring its benefits and possible risks. This approach broadens visitors' technical skills and raises awareness of potential threats such as misinformation, fake news, and errors that may arise from the improper use of AI.
A program for 8th-grade elementary school students on misinformation
With the support of the Local Action Plans project, an interactive investigative game for 8th-grade students was developed. Following successful pilot testing, it has become one of the permanent educational programs offered to schools. The investigative game focuses on exposing misinformation, with each student acting as a specialist in a team, working to verify and refute falsehoods spread through reporting activities. Students can take on various roles, such as reporters in the field, photographers who can identify fake images, or data analysts who identify true information from false. The program starts with a discussion with the students on the issue of misinformation, followed by an explanation of the rules of the game and the gameplay itself. It concludes with a reflection session, during which key concepts and conclusions are summarized and complemented by expert commentary.
Testing and feedback
A pilot version of the program was tested in September with two classes. Based on the feedback from students and teachers, the program was adapted to make the game more engaging and effective. The paper pilot versions of the cards were later replaced with professionally printed materials to enrich the visual aspect of the program.
Evaluation and benefits of the program
Programs focusing on misinformation and exposure to AI are of great benefit to education. Educators particularly value their focus on critical thinking and information literacy. The game offers students a playful yet meaningful approach to media literacy education. Students demonstrate a high level of engagement throughout the program, actively participate, and effectively reflect on the knowledge gained after the game. The program also fosters teamwork and improves their ability to analyze media messages.
Media literacy and critical thinking are essential skills for navigating today's digital world. The Disinformation Hunters program at iQLANDIA, along with the artificial intelligence exhibition addresses this need in a fun and interactive way. As a result, iQLANDIA has become an important center for education on disinformation, contributing to the development of informed and critically thinking individuals who are better equipped to understand and navigate the complex landscape of media and technology.
Author: Julia Losekoot Szymanska
Photos and illustrations: iQLANDIA
The Local Action Plans are part of the Empowering Europeans Against Disinformation (EEAD) project, implemented within TechSoup’s #DigitalActivismProgram, funded by the European Union.
