Curriculum Overhaul: UK Schools to Combat Fake News and Extremism Amidst Riot Fallout

Schools may update their curriculum to include lessons on identifying false information and debunking harmful conspiracy theories online, following recent unrest. The proposed changes might involve students scrutinizing news articles in English classes to distinguish authentic news from falsehoods, recognizing disinformation in computer courses, and evaluating data in math classes.

Sunday, August 11, 2024, 9:

The education secretary has announced plans to update the school curriculum to include lessons on identifying extremist material and false information on the internet.

Bridget Phillipson announced the initiation of an evaluation of the educational programs in elementary and high schools, aiming to integrate critical thinking throughout various subjects and equip students to counteract harmful conspiracy theories.

This implies that during English classes, students could study various articles to develop skills in distinguishing between misleading clickbait and genuine journalism.

Computer classes could instruct students on identifying unreliable news sources, while math classes could incorporate the examination of statistics within their real-world implications.

Ms. Phillipson conveyed to The Telegraph, "It is crucial, now more than ever, to equip our youth with the necessary knowledge and skills to critically assess online content."

"This is why our curriculum overhaul aims to integrate essential skills into our lessons to equip our youth with defenses against the rampant disinformation, false news, and toxic conspiracy theories prevalent on social media."

"Our updated curriculum is committed to maintaining and elevating standards in essential subjects, and this commitment is unwavering."

She mentioned that the curriculum is designed to broaden students' exposure to cultural topics and "equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in their careers and life overall."

Civil unrest erupted throughout the UK following the spread of false information on the internet claiming that a Muslim refugee was responsible for the deadly stabbing of three young women in Southport.

On Saturday, the National Police Chiefs' Council reported that 779 individuals were apprehended in connection with the recent riots. Out of those arrested, 349 have been formally charged.

On Friday, two individuals were sentenced to prison for inciting unrest through their activities on social media platforms.

Jordan Parlour received a 20-month prison sentence after admitting to distributing writings designed to incite racial animosity.

Tyler Kay received a 38-month prison sentence for inciting arson against hotels accommodating asylum seekers via social media.

It is understood that the duo are the first individuals to be incarcerated due to their social media posts connected to the nationwide unrest.

Lucy Connolly, married to a Conservative councillor, is scheduled for a court appearance on Monday, facing charges of inciting racial hatred following her post on X.

The oversight and control of social media platforms have been closely examined following the latest incidents of unrest.

Discover more: Council member on suspension faces charges for inciting unrest. Musk versus Starmer: What are the allegations between them?

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

The UK introduced the Online Safety Act as a new legislative measure to govern social media platforms last year, though it has not been completely implemented yet.

The legislation is designed to enforce regulations on businesses to prevent harmful and unsafe material from reaching those who are most at risk.

👉 Tap this link to subscribe to the Sky News Daily on your preferred podcast platform 👈

On Friday, Sir Keir Starmer suggested that he might consider tightening regulations on social media following London Mayor Sadiq Khan's remarks that the current legislation is inadequate.

Associated Subjects

Footer of Sky News

Information About Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Channels of Sky

Additional Sky Websites