Innovative Game-Based Program Teaches Students to Detect Misinformation

Read the full article in Yomiuri Shimbun

TOKYO, August 23, 2024 - Classroom Adventure, a student-led organization from Keio University, has gained national attention for its innovative media literacy program, "Ray's Blog." The program was recently featured in Yomiuri Shimbun, one of Japan's most prominent newspapers, underscoring the growing importance of media literacy education in the country.

Addressing a Critical Need

The article highlights Japan's lower rates of fact-checking compared to the United States and South Korea, emphasizing the urgent need for improved media literacy skills among Japanese citizens. "Ray's Blog" aims to address this gap by providing an engaging, game-based learning experience that teaches students how to identify and verify information online.

Hands-On Learning Through Gameplay

During a recent session at Jissen Women's Educational Institute's junior high school, about 260 third-year students participated in the "Ray's Blog" program. Students were tasked with identifying misinformation within various media formats, including videos and social media posts, using real-world fact-checking techniques.

Real-World Applications

The program incorporates recent events, such as the Noto Peninsula earthquake in January 2024, to demonstrate the real-world consequences of spreading misinformation. By learning to critically evaluate online content, students develop skills that are immediately applicable to their daily lives.

Expanding Reach and Impact

Since its inception, "Ray's Blog" has been implemented in over 50 schools across Japan, including middle schools, high schools, universities, and childcare institutions. The program's success has led to increased demand, with Classroom Adventure expanding its team and developing versions in English and Chinese for international audiences.

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