Media and Information Literacy: Biases and Fake New

Last time, information overload was presented as a challenge to digital entrepreneurs because of the massive proliferation of content that spreads in different platforms in digital media. Now, this article delves into the protection of the audiences in case they stumble upon fake news or unreliable contents. This is essential in order for media consumers to prevent themselves from harm like arriving to irrational conclusions or wrong economic decisions that can may result into buyer’s remorse. For these reasons, having strong media and information literacy skills is crucial

This article will dive into how the audiences can enhance their skills to spot credible sources of information and make informed decisions.

Identifying Credible Sources of Information. It is essential that when you consume content, think if it is credible. It is credible when it covers at least some of these characteristics:

· Authority: Look for information from recognized experts and organizations. Think leading consultants, research publications, and articles by experienced analysts.

· Accuracy: Always double-check information. Reliable sources will provide evidence, like data or citations. If it's about digital marketing trends, verify those stats and case studies.

· Objectivity: Be cautious of biased content. Look for balanced views from multiple perspectives, especially when it comes to things like market analysis or customer research.

· Currency: The digital world changes rapidly, so make sure your information is up-to-date. This is key in fast-moving fields like technology and marketing.

· Relevance: Ensure the information directly applies to your decision-making process. So, ensure that the information you have is correct. Do your due diligence to get the right information such as researching blogs or asking other people.

Embracing Source Diversity. Source diversity is the active pursuit of different information that may sometimes clash from one another in order to arrive to an accurate and well-informed decisions. To embrace it, keep in mind the following:

· Why It Matters: Getting different perspectives gives you a fuller picture and helps you avoid blind spots. This will lead you to accurate and well-informed conclusions. Hence, don't rely on a single source.

· Avoids Echo Chambers: Actively seek out information that challenges your existing beliefs. This encourages an open dialogue with one another on certain viewpoints. Hence, it prevents the audience from close-mindedness and poor critical thinking skills.

· Reputable News Outlets: Stick to news sources with a history of accurate reporting and a clear editorial process. This rewards them to report as factual and impartial as possible.

· Different Types of Sources: Use a mix of scholarly articles, news sources, and social media for a well-rounded view. It also enhances critical thinking because you connect one information or thesis to another.

Introducing Claudette: Multipotentialite in A Psychology, Education, Design and Busines

  

From a love of the arts as a child to a curiosity about human behavior, Claudette has turned her passion for learning into a career of sharing knowledge. Her colorful path intertwines different fields while supporting her mental health and child protection advocacies.

At the young age of 3, Claudette already wanted to be an artist. Throughout her student years, she excelled in academics and the arts, driven by an insatiable curiosity for everything from mathematics to sciences and literature. She would study everything if it were possible. She decided to major in psychology during her college years, yet her passion for the arts never waned. She was known as the artist in all her classes, teaching herself creative design software and learning to play musical instruments. She was active during her college days. She was a member of the school's official publication and part of the institution's chorale. She is a natural artist, though she never enjoyed dancing. After graduation, Claudette didn't expect that her childhood dreams would come true while pursuing a career in psychology.

She began as a Research Assistant in psychology field, followed by three years as a guidance designate in a public school. This role provided her first-hand experience with students struggling both academically and emotionally, which deepened her commitment to child protection advocacy. She handled challenging cases that required collaboration with teachers, administrators, LGUs, and other stakeholders. These three years felt like ten, given the intensity of the experiences and the traumas she witnessed in children.

Her communication and facilitation skills flourished during this time, inspiring her to become a teacher. This role allowed her to better understand her students while continuing her own learning journey. She took teaching units, passed the licensure examination on her first attempt, and was hired as a public school teacher, despite having no prior teaching experience. Her students adored her, and she discovered a passion for shaping young minds into future leaders, a cherished experience she will carry forever.

Unexpectedly, Claudette's career in the arts took off during the pandemic lockdown when she was hired as a cartoonist. Despite previous rejections for art-related positions due to a lack of professional experience, she took a brave step and applied. This marked the beginning of her journey as an artist. She balanced full-time teaching with freelance artistic work, accumulating four years of experience in the field. The rapid changes and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic flew by as she adapted and thrived.

Her advocacy expanded from child protection to human rights as she delved into teaching social science. She is also passionate with mental health advocacy. In May 2023, she represented the Philippines as a delegate and team leader for the Debate 2 Regulate (D2R) Future Online Safety Leaders Program in Bangkok, Thailand. Organized by the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Youth Partnership and the eSafety Commissioner, this program allowed Claudette to engage with policymakers, experts, and delegates from across ASEAN and Australia. She led Team Philippines in a Model UN-style debate, resulting in an Honorable Mention for Professionalism and Diplomatic Values.

Currently, Claudette is a full-time multimedia specialist, freelance tutor, and graphic artist. She is also pursuing a master's degree in clinical psychology while supporting her family’s business with her marketing and creative expertise.

How does she manage her time? She doesn't—she simply does what she feels like (within the rules of her work). Does she still get enough sleep? Indeed, she actually gets 8 hours of sleep. Does she have hobbies? Many. Can she do her hobbies while working and studying? No, but she finds time for them—sometimes in the middle of other activities. She has a very short attention span. Does she have a love life? Yes, a very supportive one and is also a multipotentialite. Does she have a life? Yes, and it is indeed a colorful one, with a wide spectrum of hues.

“Contrary to the saying that a jack of all trades is a master of none, I believe that one can master anything if they commit and pour their heart into it. While one may not master everything, they can certainly excel in more than one area. Why choose one when you don’t have to?”

- Claudette

Info for hyperlink: https://linktr.ee/clautercias

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

DTI welcomes Acting Secretary Cristina Roque, bids farewell to outgoing Chief Fred Pascual

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

During a turnover ceremony on 02 August 2024, Undersecretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque officially assumed the role of Acting Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The event marked the transition of leadership from outgoing DTI Secretary Fred Pascual who served the Department for two years.

In her inaugural address, DTI Acting Secretary Roque outlined her vision for the Department, emphasizing initiatives that empower the backbone of the country’s economy––the local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The acting trade chief also highlighted the importance of collaboration with stakeholders to achieve sustainable economic growth and inclusive development.

“I am very much thankful to Secretary Fred for his support as I take my new role as Acting Secretary of the DTI. We will continue to build programs that will support MSMEs which compose 99.59% of our business and also employ around 60% of our country’s workforce,” Acting Secretary Roque said.

Meanwhile, in his farewell speech, outgoing DTI Secretary Pascual thanked the entire Department for their support during his tenure. He expressed his confidence in Acting Secretary Roque effectively leading the Department in its ongoing efforts to drive the country’s robust economic growth and development.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to the entire Department as we worked on programs that complement President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a Bagong Pilipinas. I am confident that under the leadership of Acting Secretary Roque, the DTI will continue to push forward programs that will empower businesses and consumers,” said outgoing Secretary Pascual.

Prior to being appointed as acting chief of the DTI, Acting Secretary Roque served as the DTI undersecretary for the MSME Development Group. As undersecretary, she managed the Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, the Bureau of Marketing Development and Promotions, the OTOP Program Management Office, and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Management Office. She also oversaw the operations of the Small Business Corporation, Cooperative Development Authority and the Philippine Trade Training Center.

The turnover ceremony concluded with a symbolic exchange of the DTI flag, signifying the official transfer of responsibility.

Cover photo:Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Acting Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque and outgoing DTI Secretary Fred Pascual