Mini Project Assignment
Title:
Decoding Digital Misinformation: Consumer Trust and the Impact of Social Media on News
Perception
Objectives of the Assignment:
- To investigate how social media platforms influence the credibility and consumption of
news.
- To assess the behavioral patterns and trust levels of digital media users in identifying
fake vs. verified news.
- To examine the psychological and algorithmic factors that contribute to
misinformation acceptance.
- To suggest practical solutions for enhancing digital literacy and trust in legitimate
news sources.
Research Questions:
- How do users differentiate between real and fake news on platforms like Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter (X), and YouTube?
- What role do trust cues (e.g., source, peer shares, platform verification) play in shaping
news perception?
- What demographic factors (age, education, media exposure) affect vulnerability to fake
news?
Scope of the Project:
This study will focus on urban Indian internet users aged 18–45 who regularly consume
news through social media platforms. It excludes print-only or non-digital news consumers
and will not assess deepfake video/audio misinformation.
Methodology:
Data Collection:
Primary data via structured online surveys (Google Forms); Secondary data from reports by
Reuters Institute, Edelman Trust Barometer, and platform transparency reports.
Sample Size:
Minimum of 100 respondents selected using purposive sampling (active social media users
only).
Tools Used:
Statistical analysis (percentages, charts), Google Sheets/Excel, thematic coding for open
responses.
Deliverables:
- Literature Review (5 key studies)
- Survey Analysis Report with graphs
- SWOT Analysis of a selected media organization (e.g., The Times Group)
- Comparative insights from international trust reports
- Recommendations for improving media trust and literacy
Expected Outcome:
Clear understanding of trust-building factors and misinformation impact.
Identification of patterns in social media behavior and news engagement.
Real-world suggestions for improving the online media environment.
Suggested Format:
- Cover Page
- Acknowledgment
- Executive Summary
- Chapters 1–7 (as in original assignment)
- Appendix: Survey Questionnaire, Graphs, Screenshots of Sources
- References in Harvard Style