Short introduction to this modul Conspiracy theories, prevalent worldwide and across various domains, span from political controversies to scientific claims, often straddling the line between widely accepted and fringe beliefs. They can be challenging to verify, potentially leading to serious consequences when acted upon without factual basis, as seen in the case of the 2020 US election and the subsequent attack on the US Capitol. To navigate this complex landscape, it is imperative to critically analyze such theories and rely on credible sources of information. This module aims to equip individuals with the necessary skills to comprehend and address the multifaceted nature of conspiracy theories through various training activities. Below you will find a list of training activities you can implement with your class/young people with the purpose of gaining knowledge and abilities dealing with various aspects related to conspiracy theories. |
 |
What is a conspiracy theory?
The information bubble
Why do we believe in conspiracy theories?
Fact checking
What is critical thinking?
How to escape the rabbit hole?
Activity 5 - Charades - Guess the Conspiracy
This can help with putting some emotional distance to difficult subjects and still be able to share with the group the common knowledge that they have learned together in this module.
Description
A fun game to get some much needed distance to some of the conspiracy theories.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this activity, learners will achieve the following learning outcomes in terms of:
- Learners will be able to recognise most of the general Conspiracy theories.
- They are able to use their knowledge from the previous exercises to show the conspiracy theories in a fun way using only gestures.
- They are secure in their own beliefs and can have fun while discussing dark topics with others who share their knowledge.
Materials needed for implementation
For each group is needed:
- The Conspiracy Cards printout (only one sheet per class)
- Scissors
Time required
20 min.
Minimum / Maximum group size
Two groups 4-6 learners in each group - the rest can act as audience.
Level
Advanced - requires the knowledge from the activities:
- Believe it or not! Conspiracy ranking
- How do we view the World? - Understanding your own worldview
- Devil's Advocate Game
- Mapping the conspiracy world
Introduction
The trainer starts by presenting the activity to the whole class.
The class is divided into two groups and each group takes turns in picking a Conspiracy card. The person then has to show this conspiracy theory to their own group without making any sounds. They can only use gestures and mime. If the group hasn't guessed it in 1 minute the other group can guess. Each correct guess gets a point and the group with the most points after the game wins.
The class is divided into two groups and each group takes turns in picking a Conspiracy card. The person then has to show this conspiracy theory to their own group without making any sounds. They can only use gestures and mime. If the group hasn't guessed it in 1 minute the other group can guess. Each correct guess gets a point and the group with the most points after the game wins.
Activity description
1. Trainer presentation and instruction.
1 min.
2. The participants are divided into two groups.
Each group takes turns to pick up a Conspiracy card in secret.
They then have to act out the conspiracy using actions and gestures - but NO words.
If they have not guessed it within a minute the other groups can offer a guess.
After the cards have been used up - both groups should have the same number of turns - the groups with the most points win.
15-20 min.
1 min.
2. The participants are divided into two groups.
Each group takes turns to pick up a Conspiracy card in secret.
They then have to act out the conspiracy using actions and gestures - but NO words.
If they have not guessed it within a minute the other groups can offer a guess.
After the cards have been used up - both groups should have the same number of turns - the groups with the most points win.
15-20 min.
Debriefing
Suggested questions for debriefing:
Q: How do you feel about this subject matter after the game?
Q: Do you think that having fun with this subject is inappropriate?
Q: How do you feel about this subject matter after the game?
Q: Do you think that having fun with this subject is inappropriate?
Adaptation to online mode
This exercise is difficult to do in an online setting.
Further resources
No further resources needed.
References
The conspiracy cards were created by asking ChatGPT to make a list of common conspiracy theories.
