California k-12 students will be now mandated to learn how to identify fake news

California - Governor Gavin Newsom has signed into law Assembly Bill 873. This new legislation mandates the inclusion of media literacy skills in the curriculum, focusing on areas such as recognizing fake news and fostering critical thinking when navigating online content.

The bill, sponsored by Assemblymember Marc Berman, underscores the impact of misinformation on elections and the democratic process. Berman, a Democrat from Menlo Park, highlighted the urgent need for young people to develop the skills essential for navigating the complex landscape of information dissemination.

This groundbreaking initiative is poised to roll out gradually from the upcoming academic year, ensuring that students are equipped with the tools necessary to scrutinize and interpret information in today's digital world. With the prevalence of misinformation on social media platforms, the curriculum adjustment aligns with the broader goal of fostering a more media-literate generation.

As a proactive response to the rising tide of public distrust in traditional media outlets, especially prevalent among the youth, the legislation aims to bridge the gap in understanding between online sources and credible news outlets. A 2022 Pew Research Center survey revealed that adults under 30 are nearly as likely to believe information on social media as they are to trust national news outlets.

This move comes at a time when only 7% of adults, according to a Gallup poll conducted last year, express "a great deal" of trust in the media. By embedding media literacy education within various subjects like English language arts, science, math, and history-social studies, California seeks to empower students to navigate the vast and often complex world of information available to them.

As the nation grapples with the challenges posed by misinformation, California's proactive approach in integrating media literacy into its educational framework sets a precedent for other states to follow. It reflects a commitment to preparing the younger generation not only academically but also with the critical skills required to engage responsibly in the information age.