AI and Election Misinformation: What You Need to Know
Ask students: How do "bot networks" generate misinformation? Why do experts have little confidence in tools that identify AI?
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.
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?
(Teachers: You can find a full lesson plan on this podcast here.)
Republished with permission from PBS NewsHour Classroom.
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