More than vetting credibility
The problem of mis/disinformation runs deeper than just vetting sources. So much of how we interact with information is connected to identity. It is connected to belief and worldview. As librarians, we need to build a better understanding of how we, as people, process information and help our communities recognize their own epistemological stances. Reading, watching online videos, interacting on social media are all information interactions. These interactions are not just cognitive processes but they are deep interactions that connect with who we are. Check lists and "better" facts are not going address the challenges before us. Actions such as building common ground, encouraging reflective processing and engaging in lateral reading across sources are steps we need to take.
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Comments (3)
Troy S: I agree that non-rational aspects of our interaction with information need to be taught but hope you're not dispensing with rational information literacy skills. Both are essential.
Hi Troy:
Thanks for joining our conversation. How do you those things in your work as a librarian?
The primary way is via the classroom. As an instruction librarian, I am working with faculty to build assignments and support students as they build research skills. We are working to move beyond "evaluating sources" and toward looking at identity and the self as we interact with information.
Additionally, my library hosts a range of public events where we invite speakers to address issues such as the psychology of belief.