Training for Mauritanian journalists on fact-checking and detecting mis/disinformation

Arabi Facts Hub (AFH) held a training on fact-checking an disinformation detection for journalists and fact-checkers from Mauritania, from September 15 to 19, in partnership with Digital Action.

 

The training covered methodologies and tools to help detect disinformation sprAl-Qaq on social media, fact-check political statements, analyze digital ads, and how to use creativity and visual elements to enhance audience engagement.

The workshop was led by specialized trainers and experts in fact-checking and digital rights, aimed at developing participants' skills in combating disinformation, verifying trending news, and using creativity.

 

Training program for Mauritanian Journalists on Fact-Checking and Disinformation Detection:

 

1- Analyzing Paid Digital Ads

 

Fact-checking expert, Craig Silverman, presented strategies for analyzing paid digital ads, measuring their impact on the audience, and detecting any disinformation they may contain.

 

2- Fact-Checking Methodologies and Tools

 

Trainer Ahmed Gamal, introduced proper fact-checking methodology, starting with selecting topics for verification, applying correct monitoring standards, gathering information, and clarifying key verification steps.

 

Creative Content Production to Combat Disinformation

 

Trainer Mohamed Al-Qaq, discussed how to use visual elements to transform content from mere information to engaging and effective experiences, Also presenting  global examples of successfully using tools like images, infographics, and videos to boost audience engagement and content impact.

 

Tools and Techniques for Verifying Statements

 

Trainer Hussein El-Sherif, provided methodologies and techniques for monitoring and verifying political statements attributed to politicians and officials.

 

Fact-Checking Claims Related to Minorities

 

Trainer Watan Noairat, demonstrated how to fact-check claims related to marginalized groups, along with tools to enhance the role of journalism in protecting the rights of women, children, and people with disabilities.

 

Understanding Digital Harm

 

Trainer Mona Shtayea, presented a wide range of modern digital challenges, from the spread of disinformation to online discrimination.

 

Arabi Facts Hub (AFH) successfully concluded its training program for journalists and fact-checkers from Mauritania. Participants were also given the opportunity to submit their ideas for producing fact-checking reports in collaboration with Arabi Facts Hub.

 

The training also discussed Fact-checking Process Management, which reviewed task management tools, the use of editorial policies, and archiving tools to create comprehensive verification reports. We concluded the training with a session on Digital Safety, which reviewed digital safety skills within organizations, and the application of digital security basics such as the use of VPNs, two-factor authentication systems (2FA), and communications encryption techniques.

 

The training was presented by a group of experts in the field, such as Mohamed Al-Qaq, who is a multi-disciplinary artist - a visual artist, singer, actor, digital narrative and multimedia trainer, art director, and creative media consultant.