This article examines the critical role of media in spreading fake news and misleading information, particularly in an era dominated by digital platforms where credibility is increasingly questionable. This study explores how media narratives shape public opinion, often discouraging independent critical thinking. Using a quantitative research design, the study gathered data through an online questionnaire administered to students in the Excellence Track in Translation and Digital Communication at Mohammed First University in Oujda. The questionnaire measured their ability to identify features of fake news, assessed their critical reading skills, and evaluated their media literacy practices. Statistical analysis was used to identify correlations between exposure to discourse analysis and improved media literacy competencies. The findings suggest that discourse analysis serves as a practical tool for fostering a more discerning engagement with media content. Participants with a higher sensitivity to discourse analysis features, such as manipulative language and persuasive techniques, displayed a stronger critical reading ability. This indicates that discourse analysis not only contributes to a theoretical understanding of how language shapes meaning but also equips learners with practical strategies for identifying misleading information. This study recommends that discourse analysis be integrated into media literacy programs to enhance learners' critical thinking and to combat the spread of disinformation.

Authors:
Manal Belahcen, University Mohammed First, Morocco

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Posted by James Alexander Gordon

Last updated: 2023-02-23 23:45:00

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