Young people get a lot of information through social media, mainly platforms like TikTok and Instagram. In these universes, misinformation and editorial commentary abound. While the conflict in Ukraine is causing a lot of concern among young and old alike, here are some sources of information within their reach that you can invite them to consult, even on TikTok!
Of course, on all platforms, Radio-Canada remains an essential source of information, whether on conventional television, on Tou.tv or on the Web. For example, the team of Decryptors is constantly working to flush out false information. It may be a good idea to subscribe to their newsletter. Rad, Radio-Canada's journalism lab, has not yet published anything on the conflict, but we can assume that it will soon (update March 1: it's done! Why Russia invaded Ukraine?). The team dedicated to Radio-Canada's youth news, MAJ, has already published some interesting capsules such as What's going on between Russia and Ukraine? and Russia attacks Ukraine.
In addition, the independent Quebec journalist Camille Lopez has also made the search for false information her specialty. She is very active on his Twitter account. See for example his article published on the Noovo account which warns against false information circulating on TikTok.
On Twitter, you can also follow the independent journalist Alexandre Gagne which offers live coverage from the multiple news sources it tracks.
As adults, we can encourage young people to consult credible and recognized sources. But the fact remains that they are already hyperconnected on certain platforms and that they will not change their habits so easily. So might as well try to find reliable sources of information that will reach them where they are. By adding a few reliable accounts to their followers, on TikTok for example, they will be able to see more accurate information.
On TikTok
Thanks to Mathieu Mercier, social universe teacher at Rivière-du-Loup high school for the references.
The world
lemondefr
The French daily newspaper Le Monde is recognized as a source of reference information all over the planet.
Hugo Decrypts
hugodecrypte
Hugo Travers, a Franco-British journalist, has made it his mission to make the news accessible to everyone. It offers concise and verified summaries. present on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, Twitch and Youtube.
MajMyNews
majmonactu
Maj is Radio-Canada's youth news project. It presents the information in an accessible way for young people. Present on several platforms as well.
Rad
radpointca
Rad is Radio-Canada's journalism lab. Also follow on Instagram.
BFM.TV
BFMTV
BFM TV is a French television channel providing national and international news continuously. She is a staple in international media coverage. Also present on Instagram.
Other French media to follow on TikTok:
TF1 News and France Info
As a bonus!
Two resources to use in class with your students:
SCOOP! Teaching with news and digital
The École branchée team offers educational activity guides that help develop students' information literacy and digital skills, such as this one: What is going on in Ukraine?. A host of references and ideas for activities to do in class are offered.
The Curious
Le Curieux is a Quebec news newspaper for 8 to 14 year olds. Consult the newsflash War broke out in Ukraine.
Finally, it is important to remind young people that there is no point in being constantly connected to the news. Yes, you have to get informed, but in small doses so that it does not become anxiety-provoking. In the current context, it is wise for adults to take the time to discuss with children what information they have seen, what they think about it and how they feel.
Other links to help you tackle this delicate subject
- Talking to children about the war, or how to “reassure without going into details”
- The conflict between Russia and Ukraine explained to children
- Some tips to avoid spreading misinformation about the war
In closing, in a school in Old Quebec…
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