Conspiracy Theories in School and Online

This course teaches interdisciplinary approaches to the study of conspiracy theories and conspiracy thinking, emphasizing methods shown to prevent or reduce harmful conspiracy theories among students.

The course is particularly relevant for teachers in lower secondary school and upper secondary school within the social sciences and KRLE/Religion and ethics.

Knowledge

The candidate

• has gained theoretical knowledge to teach about conspiracy theories and conspiracy thinking.
• has knowledge of some of the most widespread conspiracy theories in Norway and the world today.
• has knowledge of specific teaching methods that can prevent/reduce the spread of conspiracy theories/conspiracy thinking among students.
• possesses knowledge of lesson plans for fostering critical-analytical thinking, pluralism of perspectives, and source criticism.
• has knowledge of didactic challenges related to teaching about conspiracy theories and conspiracy thinking.

Skills

The candidate

• can develop good didactic methods to reduce and prevent conspiracy theories and conspiracy thinking among students.
• can use relevant theory to discuss the likely learning effects of teaching arrangements.
• can identify challenges in teaching arrangements and suggest possible solutions.
• can identify challenges related to how the school and students face societal crises and conflicts.

General competence

The candidate

• Is able to systematically plan, evaluate, and revise teaching plans based on the curriculum in social studi, and religious education.

The course is organized with three compulsory seminars. The deadline for completion/delivery of written work requirements is stated at the start of the semester. Work requirements and other tasks completed as part of the seminars are intended to support and promote the candidate's work in achieving the course's learning outcomes.

Working methods in the seminars alternate between lectures, individual and group work, discussions, and oral and written work. Between the mandatory seminars, the candidate must develop, test, and gather experience on their own teaching plan on conspiracy theories, which can then be presented and discussed in the semester paper.

The teaching in the course is coordinated with the course MGLU5243, so that all teaching in this course is open to students taking SKOLE6024, and three seminars (seminar days) are compulsory. Whether it can be opened for digital participation is assessed by the lecturer upon request.