A study conducted by Western Sydney University revealed important results regarding media literacy in Australia. Accordingly, it was stated that media literacy has not kept pace with rapidly advancing artificial intelligence technologies. According to the study, people feel insecure and in danger. This situation has the potential to create a new division in society. Incorrect information, especially spread on social media platforms, has also shaken people's trust in news sources.
Media Trust at Rock Bottom
According to the Digital News Report: Australia 2024, only 26% of Australians trust the news. On the other hand, 18% trust news from social media platforms. The low level of trust is a result of the increasing misinformation that permeates media platforms. The ability to critically evaluate media content has not improved significantly over the years.
This slow progress in media literacy is particularly worrying given the ability of AI tools to produce high-quality deepfakes and disinformation, according to Tanya Notley, a lecturer at the university.
Notley says AI is making media literacy more complex, making it harder for people to detect where AI is being used. AI is being used in more sophisticated ways to manipulate people with disinformation, and the effects are already being felt.
Forward-Looking Solution Proposals
Legal regulations are necessary to combat this threat. However, this process is progressing slowly. While the recent passage of a bill by the US Senate banning pornographic deepfakes is seen as a step in this regard, education is also vital for individuals to be able to identify risky materials produced by AI. Notley emphasized the importance of education in this regard and expressed concern that the gap between individuals who can develop media literacy in society is increasing.
The research found that young Australians aged 18-29 are more likely to be media literate. Those with tertiary education or in jobs that require digital skills are more aware of how AI can be used and its potential dangers. However, older generations, those with lower levels of education and those living in lower socioeconomic backgrounds are less likely to develop media literacy.
Notley said she was concerned about the growing gap between those who have the ability to navigate the digital world and those who donât. The dangers of this situation are particularly evident, she said, given the lack of a focused program in Australia to close this gap. Australia is now one of the few advanced democracies without a national strategy for media literacy. Such a national strategy would provide clear targets and funding for developing these skills across society.
