About the Studio

“It is now said that we live in a post-truth era—an era in which audiences are increasingly likely to believe information that appeals to their emotions and their personal beliefs, as opposed to seeking and accepting information that is regarded as factual and objective.”

Nicole A. Cooke (2018)

STUDIO PROMPT

What exactly is meant by the term ‘fake news’, and what is its history? What do we mean by ‘post-truth era’? In a media landscape where news and information are rapidly disseminated before the veracity of claims are checked, what is the role and importance of fact-checking and what are the possibilities for combatting the spread of disinformation?

DESCRIPTION

In broadcast, online, and print media, the term ‘fake news’ has become something of a catchall, broadly used to refer to misinformation, disinformation, and in more troubling cases, news and information that people either don’t believe or simply wish to discredit. In this post-broadcast era and post-truth era the drive towards accountability and accuracy has taken on a new sense of urgency as journalists seek to combat the spread of dis- and misinformation. Fact-checking—which aims to present clear, objective assessments of a claim or news story— holds politicians, public figures, and institutions to account, sorting fact from fiction in a media landscape where a tweet can reach thousands in a matter of hours. In this studio we will collaborate with RMIT ABC Fact Check, an organisation which seeks to determine the accuracy of claims made by those engaged in public debate. Through reading, viewing, discussion, and making, this studio will explore both the challenge and the necessity of fact-checking. Students will also learn the basic skills of fact-checking by familiarising themselves with the RMIT ABC Fact Check methodology. We will explore the history and definitions of the term ‘fake news’ and the ways the meaning attached to this term have shifted over time.