Awareness, Knowledge and Perception of Communication Students Towards Misinformation, Disinformation, Fake News and Fact-Checking

Abstract

Given the increasing spread of misleading information in the digital age, media literacy and fact-checking have become essential for responsible media consumption and professional practice. This study investigates the level of awareness, understanding, and perception of fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and fact-checking among Mass Communication students of Faculty of Communication and Media Studies (FCMS) at Lagos State University (LASU). Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a framework, the study explores the students' attitude toward behavior and perceived behavioral control regarding information verification. The study employed a descriptive design with survey method with the use of online Google form as instrument of data collection. Proportionate sampling, systematic and convenience sampling techniques were employed to select 326 Mass Communication undergraduates in LASU. Findings reveal a high level of awareness, with 99% of students familiar with the concepts. Students demonstrated strong understanding of fake news (89%) and fact-checking (92%) but showed limited comprehension of misinformation (35%) and disinformation (53%). Despite their positive perception of fact-checking with 85% considering it crucial to combating fake news and 95% verifying information before sharing, there is still need to find out how they verify information before sharing. The study recommends integrating comprehensive media literacy programs into the LASU curriculum, emphasizing the distinctions between misinformation, disinformation, and fake news; and how to verify information.