Panel Discussion: The Impact of Social Media and Misinformation on Education and Society (February 2025)

Panel Discussion: The Impact of Social Media and Misinformation on Education and Society

Sheikha Nama Al Qassimi Endowed Chair for Education Across Disciplines at AUS and Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning at AUS

With tools allowing information to spread at unprecedented speeds, social media have become both powerful instruments for education and major channels of misinformation (a concept to be explored). This panel brings together experts from media studies, psychology, and information systems and business to explore the cognitive, educational, social and economic dimensions of "misinformation." Together, we will examine the psychological mechanisms that make misinformation persuasive, the role of both algorithms and media literacy in shaping public–and particularly students’–perceptions, and the business models that incentivize or combat false narratives. Through this interdisciplinary discussion, we aim to uncover the challenges and responsibilities of educators, policymakers, tech companies and individuals in navigating the complex information landscape of the digital age.

Panelists:

• Dr. Zoe Hurley, Associate Professor, Department of Media Communication, College of Arts and Sciences
• Dr. Mark Aveyard, Associate Professor and Interim Head, Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences
• Dr. Nash Milic, Associate Professor of Information Systems and Business Analytics, School of Business Administration

For more information, please contact  Cleofi Krista Capili | [email protected].