When my students begin a new assignment that calls for online research, I often ask what websites they shouldn’t use. Almost every student exclaims, “Wikipedia!”

“Why?” I ask, even though I already know their response. “Because anyone can write anything,” someone typically replies. When I tell them that they can use Wikipedia, the students often look at me in confusion. Then I add that they have to use the website correctly.

Wikipedia is the fifth most visited website in the world, with more than 40 million articles accessed every month. College and university professors are increasingly turning to the online encyclopedia. Even doctors may find information on Wikipedia.

The first class is about effectively navigating a Wikipedia article can provide students with an opportunity to learn about peer review, sourcing, footnotes, and internet research. It also teaches critical-thinking skills.

By the end of the second class, learners should know the different ways you to spot fake news. 

Using examples, we will go through the following 8 topics:
1) How reliable is the source?
2) Is it sensationalised clickbait?
3) How reliable is the author?
4) Is the supporting evidence compelling?
5) Is it current and still relevant?
6) Is it too ridiculous to be true?
7) Are you biased towards believing it?
8) Check with an expert or fact-checker?

No previous experience or extra reading is required for this class.

Please note:
*If you do not see a time or date listed for a class that interests you, please message me with a few possible dates and times, and I will do my best to offer a session that will work for your schedule.

*Please be aware I try to teach all of my classes, to at least 2 students as I feel it provides a better teaching and learning experience. If the minimum amount of students is not reached 24 hours before the start of the course, students will be moved to the next available section at a similar time.

*Once a learner has been verified per OS policy, this is a camera optional class.

*For parents/families who feel their child would benefit from this course, but their budget does not allow for it, I do offer a number of discounts for families of lower income. Please message me with the course, dates and times you are interested in to learn more about the discounts I might be able to offer.