Recording-2025-04-15T15:00:33.857Z

Online News Consumption

• Increasing trend of consuming news online, particularly among younger audiences (ages 9 and 10).
• News aggregators: Recommended for getting reliable information while developing trusted sources.
  • Example: Real Clear Politics (RCP) offers relatively balanced news coverage with links to various journalists worldwide.

Concerns Over Online News

• Fake News & Misleading Information:

  • Risks of encountering fake or misleading headlines designed to attract clicks.
  • Acknowledgment of personal experiences with misleading headlines; clickbait affects everyone.

• Media Manipulation:

  • Understanding the influence of media on public perception is crucial:
  • Bias: Media can distort news based on editorial preferences.
  • Framing: How issues are presented can shape understanding (e.g., immigration debates).
  • Priming: Setting the agenda on what issues receive attention.

Influence of Media Through Bias, Framing, and Priming

• Bias Definition:

  • Setting the agenda based on chosen topics.
  • Example: If CBS News repeatedly reports on vaping, this suggests it's a prioritized issue, raising questions about news coverage.

• Framing Issues:

  • Characterizing news stories as positive or negative influences public opinion.
  • Example: Different portrayals of immigration depending on media narrative.

• Importance of Skepticism in Journalism:

  • Media should take an adversarial role, questioning and verifying information without being hostile.
  • Skepticism against institutions is crucial (e.g., military, scientific reporting).

Expertise and Credibility in News Reporting

• Importance of expert knowledge in reporting on complex issues:
  • Example: An individual with expertise in Navy uniforms may criticize reports on military topics.
  • Similarly,