Dealing with Scientific Misinformation Online,

Thanks to the internet, it is easier than ever to access scientific information. We can now research into areas of science, health, tech, climate change, nutrition and space, with only a few clicks. Unfortunately there can be a lot of misinformation online too including misleading headlines, fake claims, manipulated data and incorrect explanations.

Scientific misinformation can be very common on social media, websites, videos and messengers. It can often be posted with the intention of gaining attention for the post or to push a certain opinion. But sometimes people genuinely post incorrect information which they believe to be true. Being able to identify and deal with scientific misinformation will help you to make informed decisions.

What is Scientific Misinformation?

Scientific misinformation occurs when false or misleading information is claimed to be factual. This could be incorrect conclusions, over exaggerations, old information or something with no reputable scientific evidence.

you may see posts online saying ‘This food will prevent you from getting any diseases’ or ‘this one study has completely changed how experts know this’. Often they will simplify scientific research and ignore key information.

Its also good to know the difference between misinformation and disinformation. Misinformation is incorrect information which is not intended to be. Disinformation is information which has been created or shared to trick people.

By knowing the difference you can think carefully about how to respond.

Check The Source

An easy way to assess if something is scientific is to see where it has come from.

Most reputable scientific information will be found in universities, well known research centres, government scientific departments, medical organisations and peer-reviewed papers. This will often give you information on how the research was carried out, who carried it out, any limitations and evidence.

When reading a scientific article online look to see if there are references to the original studies or reputable scientific papers. If there isn’t any mention of sources and the website is making big claims, look into it further.

Don’t take the title or short caption at face value. Read the full article and look for any evidence.

Don’t Take One Study As Fact

A common mistake is to believe something from one piece of research. Science is continually researched, tested and assessed.

There may not be enough participants in the study, not enough research conditions or flaws in the research. Meaning more research needs to be done to make valid conclusions.

Try to find information from multiple independent sources of research. Scientific reviews and meta-analyses can also help. These look at multiple studies and find general patterns within.

Scientific conclusions can often change depending on how strong the evidence is. This isn’t a bad thing as it means the science can improve.

Be Cautious Of Emotive Titles

Content online often tries to gain attention. Using words like miracle, secret, shocking discovery or ‘scientists don’t want you to know’ in a title can cause people to want to share it without considering the facts.

Using emotive language can make things sound more believable.

Before sharing a scientific post, take a second to think. Ask yourself some questions:

Is the title reflective of the research? Is there any reputable evidence to back up the information? Are any limitations or different conclusions mentioned in the article? Is this post trying to make you feel scared, excited or angry?

By taking time to think about what you’re reading you won’t be spreading any misinformation.

Check Multiple Reputable Sources

Another great way to assess scientific information is to look at multiple independent sources.

If you are researching a new medical discovery look at information from recognised medical centres, public health organisations and reputable scientific papers.

Although the information may be explained differently, they will generally all back up the main findings of the research. You can also use reputable fact checking organisations to look into popular claims. But even these articles should be carefully considered by looking at the references and evidence.

Be Aware Of Artificial Intelligence Limitations

Artificial intelligence can be used to help understand scientific topics, summarise research and explain complicated ideas. However, this does not mean the information is always correct.

Some AI can give incorrect explanations, misunderstand research findings or give references that don’t exist. This should not be taken as fact but should be used as a starting point.

When using AI to find scientific information, always double check any key claims by looking at original research papers and reputable institutions. When making decisions relating to medical or health-related information always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Be Critical

Every user online should aim to reduce the amount of scientific misinformation. By sharing incorrect posts you are exposing many people to misleading information, especially if it looks emotional or confident.

Take time to consider if the information is correct before sharing. If it isn’t backed up then don’t share it.

When correcting your friends/relatives, always be polite. People are more likely to consider new information if they aren’t embarrassed or attacked.

Share reputable sources, explain why the information is misleading and encourage them to look up the evidence for themselves.

Improve Your Digital And Scientific Literacy

Digital literacy is knowing how to research, assess and use information online. Scientific literacy is knowing how research works, how evidence is assessed and why conclusions can sometimes change. This will help you become less susceptible to misleading information.

As a student you can practise looking at references in research, teachers can encourage a more evidence-based discussion and families can discuss how to spot untrustworthy claims online.

The more you know about scientific methods and online information, the easier it will be to spot credible findings.

Conclusion

Scientific misinformation online can be a serious issue. It can affect your decisions, discussions and understanding. However, by checking sources, comparing reputable research, being critical of emotive titles and being careful before sharing, you can protect yourself.

Science is continuously improving. New evidence can improve or change explanations. Responsible science communication should include uncertainty.

Overall, scientific misinformation requires curiosity, patience and critical thinking. We shouldn’t believe everything we see online and should use evidence. Encourage others to do the same.