CAN STUDENTS CHALLENGE MISINFORMATION EFFECTIVELY?
What New Research Says About Community-Engaged Learning
Excellent Educator, 3(11), 7-8, 2026
WHAT RESEARCH FOUND
In an age of misinformation, students need more than content knowledge. Researchers developed a course that trained graduate students to address misinformation through community engagement, dialogue, and evidence-based communication.
Students became more confident in science communication and showed stronger intentions to engage with communities. Rather than simply correcting misinformation with facts, they learned to listen, build trust, and connect through shared values. The study highlights the importance of relational and community-based approaches to addressing inaccurate information.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Students increasingly encounter misinformation online and offline. Schools play a critical role in preparing learners to evaluate claims and communicate evidence responsibly.
CLASSROOM REALITY
| Schools Want | Students Often Experience |
| Evidence-based reasoning | Information overload |
| Civic engagement | Passive consumption |
| Dialogue | Online polarization |
| Critical evaluation | Quick sharing |
TRY TOMORROW
- Analyze a questionable online claim.
- Ask students to identify evidence.
- Practice respectful disagreement.
- Discuss how trust influences belief.
CAUTION
Correcting misinformation requires more than presenting facts. Relationships and trust matter.
ONE KEY TAKEAWAY
Students may be better prepared to address misinformation when they learn how to communicate evidence effectively.
Keywords: misinformation, science communication, civic engagement, evidence
Reference:
Cagle, S. M., Anderson, A. A., & Kelp, N. C. (2025). Stop the spread: Empowering students to address misinformation through community-engaged, interdisciplinary science communication training.