Sergiu participated in the Training Course “The Truth Behind the Headlines” organized by PROJUVEN in Benalmádena, Spain
Hello Sergiu! Can you give us your opinion about the project “The Truth Behind the Headlines“ and Erasmus + experience?
Taking part in the “The Truth Behind the Headlines” project through Erasmus + has been such a lovely journey. The project’s focus on media literacy and critical thinking is such a necessary aspect of modern-day life that needs to be tackled especially in this era of information overload. Through various workshops and collaborative activities, entertained by both the trainers and actual participants of the project, I gained valuable insights into dissecting news narratives, discerning biases, and understanding the importance of fact-checking while at the same time understanding the importance of context and background, as a result of working with so many people growing up and living in different environments. Because of the times we live in, every participant had somewhat of an understanding about fake news and what it represents, but it is projects like these that create the opportunity for these types of subjects to be challenged. This Erasmus+ project was a great way to create a conversation around the topic but also a great chance to create new bonds with people from all over.
How has your perspective changed about fake news as a result of participating in this training course? What were the most valuable takeaways from the course for you personally?
I’ll say that, while the course didn’t alter my fundamental perspective on fake news, it did reinforce the need for fact-checking and media literacy. The reasoning behind false or blown out of proportion headlines became so vast and diverse, that it is important more now than ever to double check your sources and if said sources are providing their own personal bias. I think what changed for me after the course, was my perspective on the power in numbers, and how when trying to reach a compromise, quieter voices are being forgotten. Before the workshop that gave me this new perspective, I was leaning towards the idea that if the vast majority perceives something as the truth it will likely make it the right thing. That did prove to be not so black and white, as we often neglect the circumstances of how that communal accord came to be.
One of the most valuable things I gained from the course is the improved ability to spot fake news, thanks to the many discussions we had. It was fascinating to hear different perspectives on various topics that differed from mine. I also feel that the course has increased my resilience to manipulation, making me more aware of fake news. Because this project had us engaging in intense conversations and discussions, my public speaking skills, and my ability to express myself have also developed.
According to you, what are some effective methods to educate young people about fake news?
I think the most effective way to fight fake news is by educating people from a very young age. Kids get exposed to technology and media right from kindergarten, so it’s crucial to teach them skills like navigating the internet, reading between the lines, and fact-checking. It’s important for them to have some kind of courses or classes where they deal with real-life cases, distinguishing fake news and having discussions about them. In the end, tackling fake news depends on the quality of education and a person’s literacy. The more educated individuals we have who seek facts and truth instead of biases and sensationalism, the better chance we have at building a society equipped to navigate the complex world we live in.
