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. |
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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 1 - Believe it or not! Conspiracy ranking
Description
Rank Conspiracy theories after how likely you think they are to be true.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this activity, learners will achieve the following learning outcomes in terms of:
- Learners will have knowledge of a variety of conspiracy theories that are in the public debate.
- Ability to discuss and assess one’s own belief in general conspiracy theories and match them with clothes people’s beliefs.
- Develop an attitude towards general conspiracies as a group and finding a common ground while leaving room for dissenting voices.
Materials needed for implementation
For each group is needed:
- The Conspiracy Cards printout (only one sheet per class)
- The Conspiracy Ranking sheet (one per group)
- Scissors
Time required
30 min.
Test 1
Test 1
Minimum / Maximum group size
2 - 5 people
Level
Beginner (no prior knowledge required)
Introduction
The trainer starts by presenting the activity by dividing the class into groups of 4-5 learners. The conspiracy cards have been cut out (30 cards) and each group is handed 5-10 cards depending on how many groups there are. Each group gets a Ranking sheet (could be printed in A3). The trainer then presents a couple of the theories (that are not handed out in the class to see how the reaction is and instructs the groups if they have heard about it before - and then to rank them on the scale of very-likely-to-be-true to very-unlikely-to-be-true.
The groups then had to do the same exercise with their own cards.
The groups then had to do the same exercise with their own cards.
Activity description
Participants get a stack of 5-10 conspiracy cards.
5 minutes.
Trainer presentation and instruction.
15 minutes.
1: Participants take one card at a time and read it aloud and discuss if they have heard about it before, and then rank them using the “Conspiracy ranking” document after how likely the theories are to be true.
2: The group will most likely not agree on this ranking so if there a different attitudes in the group - each viewpoint will get 1 minute to argue their case.
3: The group then votes on the ranking based on the arguments.
15 minutes.
4: Each group will then (loyally) present the group findings for the rest of the class with a short description of the Conspiracy theory and how likely they think it is to be true.
15 minutes.
5 minutes.
Trainer presentation and instruction.
15 minutes.
1: Participants take one card at a time and read it aloud and discuss if they have heard about it before, and then rank them using the “Conspiracy ranking” document after how likely the theories are to be true.
2: The group will most likely not agree on this ranking so if there a different attitudes in the group - each viewpoint will get 1 minute to argue their case.
3: The group then votes on the ranking based on the arguments.
15 minutes.
4: Each group will then (loyally) present the group findings for the rest of the class with a short description of the Conspiracy theory and how likely they think it is to be true.
15 minutes.
Debriefing
Suggested questions for a debriefing.
Q: Did you learn something new that you didn’t know before?
Q: Did you change your mind on some of the cards after the discussion?
Q: Did you agree with the placement of the cards on the likely-to-be-true-scale?
Q: Did you learn something new that you didn’t know before?
Q: Did you change your mind on some of the cards after the discussion?
Q: Did you agree with the placement of the cards on the likely-to-be-true-scale?
Adaptation to online mode
This exercise is difficult to do in an online setting and needs breakout rooms and a way to present the cards to each group. This can be done with group discussions and maybe a Jambord to place the cards. but the discussion will be more free flowing in a physical classroom.
Further resources
No further resources needed.
References
The conspiracy cards were created by asking ChatGPT to make a list of common conspiracy theories.
Handouts
