Our project delivers a digital civics curriculum to 16 year-olds. It is focused on four key areas: understanding social media algorithms, verifying and authenticating online content, understanding content moderation, and responsible democratic participation. The discussion-based curriculum is designed to increase knowledge, encourage reflective dialogue on ethical dilemmas, and teach practical skills to develop critical engagement with online content.
Why do we need it?
There are not many TV series that are discussed at the highest levels of government, but the compelling Netflix series ‘Adolescence’ is one of them. The show follows 13 year-old Jamie Miller, who is accused of murdering classmate Katie, after being influenced by misogynistic content online. The show stands out in its portrayal of a concerning reality for many of today’s young people: harmful content on social media.
Social media platforms are increasingly spaces where young people can effectively engage with politics, particularly on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. However, a rise in the spread of mis and disinformation, new AI-generated content, and internet sub-cultures present challenges to verifying fact from fiction, and mitigating access to harmful content. The consequences of such exposure are significant and wide-reaching. There is an urgent need to educate young people in engaging responsibly, critically, and reflectively on the online content they access.
Schools have a vital role to play in educating students (and their parents) in digital literacy. Whilst the PSHE curriculum and Internet Safety initiatives go some way in addressing key issues, there is still much more to be done. The Digital Civics Initiative seeks to fill that gap.
Who delivers it?
The project is led by postdoctoral fellow Emma Connolly a political scientist and expert on social media. Emma has over a decade of experience teaching and leading departments in secondary schools. She has designed and implemented curricula in English, Politics, and PSHE. Her academic work focuses on the viral movement patterns of narratives on social media platforms, and has experience in working with X, Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit. She has published with The Conversation UK and the International Journal of Social Media and Online Communities.
The curriculum, designed by Emma in collaboration with other members of the Lab, will be delivered by top UCL undergraduates. These undergraduates, trained and supervised by the Lab, are uniquely positioned to communicate effectively about the risks of social media with school students.
How can I find out more or arrange a session?
Contact Emma Connolly here. The length and frequency of seminars can vary based on your need. There is no fee.
