CBS News and Stations Partners with Newhouse School to Combat Misinformation
In an era saturated with information, the ability to discern truth from falsehood has become paramount. Recognizing this crucial need, CBS News and Stations has forged a partnership with the prestigious S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University to equip aspiring journalists with the tools to navigate the treacherous landscape of misinformation and disinformation. This collaboration marks the beginning of a dynamic relationship that promises to provide Newhouse students with unparalleled access to industry leaders, collaborative content creation opportunities, and real-world experiences in major media hubs.
The partnership kicks off with a two-day program focusing on the challenges of misinformation, commencing on January 30th with a panel discussion titled "An Eye on Misinformation and Disinformation." The panel boasts a distinguished lineup of CBS News journalists, including Senior White House Correspondent Weijia Jiang, Congressional Correspondent Scott MacFarlane, Reporter Ali Bauman, and CBS News Confirmed Executive Editor Rhona Tarrant. These seasoned professionals will share their insights and experiences, offering students a firsthand perspective on the complexities of reporting in the digital age.
This initiative underscores the Newhouse School’s unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism education, particularly timely as the school celebrates its 60th anniversary. Dean Mark J. Lodato emphasizes the significance of this partnership, stating, "This is a tremendous opportunity for Newhouse students to learn from some of the best reporters, editors and producers in the country, starting with our timely and intensive discussions about maintaining journalistic integrity while combatting disinformation.” The collaboration aims to provide students with not just theoretical knowledge but practical skills to identify and counter misinformation, equipping them to become responsible and impactful journalists.
The partnership extends beyond the initial panel discussion, with plans for collaborative content creation between CBS News and Stations and Newhouse students. This hands-on experience will allow students to work alongside seasoned professionals, gaining invaluable practical experience in newsgathering, reporting, and production. Furthering the immersive learning experience, students will have the opportunity to engage with CBS News and Stations journalists in New York, Washington D.C., and other key media cities, providing them with a broader understanding of the diverse landscape of journalism.
A central component of this collaboration is a masterclass focusing on the tools and techniques for analyzing misinformation and disinformation. Led by Newhouse Senior Associate Dean Regina Luttrell and Research Professor Jason Davis, in conjunction with the CBS News team, the masterclass offers an intensive learning environment for 25 selected Newhouse students. Through interactive case studies, real-world examples, and hands-on sessions, participants will gain practical skills to identify, analyze, and combat misinformation and disinformation.
The masterclass provides a unique opportunity for students to delve into the intricacies of misinformation, exploring its origins, dissemination, and impact. They will learn how to critically evaluate information sources, identify manipulative tactics, and utilize verification techniques to ensure the accuracy of their reporting. This hands-on approach will empower students to become discerning consumers and producers of information, crucial skills for navigating the complex media landscape of the 21st century. Further emphasizing the commitment to student development, members of the CBS News and Stations team will also review student reels, offering valuable feedback and guidance on their journalistic portfolios. This personalized attention provides students with a unique opportunity to receive professional critique and refine their skills.
The selection process for the masterclass was highly competitive, with applications open to Newhouse juniors, seniors, and graduate students. The chosen participants represent the future of journalism, and this intensive training will equip them with the tools and knowledge to uphold the principles of journalistic integrity in the face of the growing challenges of misinformation and disinformation. The partnership between CBS News and Stations and the Newhouse School represents a significant investment in the future of journalism, ensuring that the next generation of reporters is prepared to navigate the complex information landscape and uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics. This collaborative effort not only benefits the students involved but also contributes to a more informed and discerning public, empowering citizens to critically evaluate information and engage in productive democratic discourse.