Policy responses to false and misleading digital content
A snapshot of children’s media literacy
The digital environment offers opportunities that can enrich children’s physical and
mental well-being. Yet, false and misleading digital content, including disinformation
and misinformation, is a risk. It can deepen political polarisation, erode public
trust in democratic institutions and threaten public health. Media literacy is part
of a suite of policies countries are using to maximise digital opportunities and minimise
digital risks. This paper has four parts. First, it outlines current research and
definitions relating to false and misleading digital content and looks at children's
behaviour in the digital environment. Second, the concepts of media literacy, digital
literacy and other relevant competencies are discussed. Third, research on children’s
experiences of false and misleading digital content and their perceived levels of
digital media literacy is analysed. Finally, policies and practices which deliver
media literacy are discussed. Research limitations and other barriers, such as teacher
training, are described.
Available from August 02, 2022
In series:OECD Education Working Papersview more titles