AI and election misinformation: what you need to know

Daily News Lesson

Nov. 5, 2024, 9:48 a.m.

AI and election misinformation: what you need to know

SUMMARY

AI-generated political messaging and misinformation can quickly spread online. But, what is AI and why does it matter? AI and misinformation experts all agree that it is nearly impossible to spot AI-created text, so the best way to insulate yourself from believing and spreading false information online is to approach all content with some hesitancy — especially if it’s not from a trusted source.

News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

What did X (formerly known as Twitter) remove from the site this past year?
How do "bot networks" generate misinformation?
Why do experts have little confidence in tools that identify AI?
How should visitors to social media sites avoid getting manipulated by AI misinformation, according to the experts in this segment?
Who is using AI as part of election and political strategies?

FOCUS QUESTIONS

What do you think will be the impact of AI on politics in the United States?
Do you think AI should be regulated in some way? What laws or rules might reduce misinformation? Or do you not think governments should have any role in assessing and regulating misinformation? Explain.

Media literacy: Where do you get your news about the world? Have you seen examples of AI images, text or video in those places?

Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?

FOR MORE

What students can do: Listen to this podcast from Student Reporting Labs on AI and the 2024 election — how do you think AI is affecting voters' ideas and attitudes about politics today? How do you think AI will evolve as a political tool by 2028?