JOURNAL ARTICLE

Linking Media Instruction, Media Literacy, and Digital Skills to Fake News Beliefs and Censorship Support.

  • Published In: Journalism & Mass Communication Educator, 2023, v. 78, n. 4. P. 401 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Curnalia, Rebecca M. L. 3 of 3

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between media literacy, digital skills, beliefs about fake news, and support for government censorship among college students. Survey data from 304 students assessed news literacy, digital skills (including advanced, social media, and information skills), fake news beliefs, and attitudes toward media censorship. Findings indicate that students with higher media literacy and digital skills tend to be more skeptical of mainstream news media and hold stronger beliefs that news outlets spread fake news; however, these beliefs do not correspond to increased support for government censorship. Additionally, media-related coursework and social media skills were positively associated with support for censorship, while fake news beliefs were not significant predictors of censorship support. The study highlights the complexity of how literacy and beliefs interact with attitudes toward press freedom and suggests that fake news beliefs may reflect a form of media skepticism rather than outright distrust warranting censorship.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journalism & Mass Communication Educator. 2023/12, Vol. 78, Issue 4, p401
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Communication and Mass Media
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:1077-6958
  • DOI:10.1177/10776958231206043
  • Accession Number:173655981
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