RMIT Launches Innovative Digital Comic Series to Combat Online Disinformation Targeting Young Men
Melbourne, Australia – RMIT University has unveiled a groundbreaking digital comic series, "The Adventures of Soy Boy and Friends," designed to tackle the pervasive issue of online disinformation and harmful narratives, particularly those affecting young men. This innovative project, a collaborative effort between RMIT students, educators, and violence prevention experts, aims to equip young men with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex digital landscape and identify credible information. The comic series uses relatable characters and engaging storylines to explore the real-life challenges faced by university students as they grapple with the spread of misinformation among their peers and within academic settings.
The creation of "The Adventures of Soy Boy and Friends" stemmed from a series of workshops and discussions involving male students and experts, ensuring the comic’s relevance and resonance with its target audience. RMIT graduate Millie Ovenden brought the project to life with her vibrant and captivating illustrations, drawing inspiration from the lived experiences shared by students during these consultations. The first edition of the comic, released to coincide with Respect at Uni Week, delves into the pressures faced by young men as they encounter the blurring lines between fake news and truth in their social and academic circles.
The comic follows a diverse group of fictional characters as they navigate the complexities of university life, armed with the tools to identify credible sources and dissect misleading information. Each installment of the series addresses a specific theme related to online disinformation, ranging from identifying manipulative tactics and biased information to understanding the motivations behind misinformation campaigns. By embedding these critical thinking skills within an entertaining narrative, the comic aims to empower young men to become more discerning consumers of information and resist the influence of harmful online narratives.
The project has garnered significant attention for its innovative approach to combating online misinformation and fostering respectful online interactions. Shelley Hewson-Munro, RMIT’s Prevention and Respect Manager, emphasizes the ongoing collaboration between students, educators, and researchers in promoting a safe and respectful campus environment. "This project highlights how students, educators, and researchers are still working together to challenge how we care for one another, and how campuses can be safe and respectful places where we all can thrive," she states. The comic series represents a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and respectful online environment for all students.
The launch of "The Adventures of Soy Boy and Friends" coincides with Respect at Uni Week, further emphasizing the university’s commitment to creating a campus culture free from violence and discrimination. RMIT’s proactive engagement with the issue of online disinformation highlights the institution’s recognition of the significant impact of online spaces on students’ lives and well-being. By providing young men with the critical thinking skills to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly, the comic series contributes to a broader effort in fostering a more respectful and inclusive society.
The digital comic series is freely accessible online, ensuring its widespread availability and impact among students and the wider community. RMIT’s innovative approach to addressing online disinformation stands as a model for other institutions seeking to empower their students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the digital age. The project’s focus on young men reflects a growing awareness of the particular vulnerabilities they face in online spaces, and the importance of equipping them with the tools to counter harmful narratives and promote respectful online interactions. The "Adventures of Soy Boy and Friends" promises to be an invaluable resource for young men and a catalyst for positive change in online discourse.
