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Sept. 28, 2022, 3:46 p.m.

Student Reporting Labs: How a young mother came to reject conspiracy theories

Summary

Like millions of Americans, Karen Robertson of Iuka, Mississippi, believed in conspiracy theories. But one day she had an experience that convinced her to challenge her beliefs. She spoke about that moment with student reporter Makenna Mead of Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s Youth Media Project. Their conversation is part of our Student Reporting Labs series on misinformation, "Moments of Truth." For a transcript of this story, click here .

Five Facts

  • Who is profiled in this story, and what is her background?
  • What are some of the conspiracy theories that Karen Robertson believed?
  • Why did Robertson come to believe the conspiracy theories?
  • When did Robertson come to doubt the conspiracy theories she had believed in?
  • How does Robertson suggest others can avoid believing in such theories?

Focus Questions

What do you think is the most important lesson others can take from Robertson's experience? Media literacy: How is the impact of this story shaped by having a young reporter interview Robertson?

For More

What students can do: Do you have anyone in your life that believes in conspiracy theories? What do you think is the best way to talk with them about believing in such theories after watching this story?
  • Do you know how to avoid falling for misinformation online? Check out this Classroom lesson or just the accompanying video below for ideas:

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