Poor numerical literacy linked to greater susceptibility to Covid-19 fake news
Cambridge University study also suggests older people less likely to believe coronavirus misinformation
Natalie Grover Science correspondent
Tue 13 Oct 2020 19.01 EDT
People with poor numerical literacy are more likely to believe Covid-19 misinformation, according to a survey conducted in five countries.
Researchers at Cambridge University said the findings suggested improving peoples analytical skills could help turn the tide against an epidemic of fake news surrounding the health crisis.
Five national surveys reflecting national quotas for age and gender were conducted this year to evaluate susceptibility to coronavirus-related misinformation and its influence on key health-related behaviours.
The study found the most consistent predictor of decreased susceptibility to misinformation about Covid-19 was numerical literacy the ability to digest and apply quantitative information broadly.
More:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/oct/14/poor-numerical-literacy-linked-to-greater-susceptibility-to-covid-19-fake-news
JI7
(89,276 posts)Why do they have such trouble just reporting on the facts ?
Doodley
(9,135 posts)messaging to counter that.
lagomorph777
(30,613 posts)Not a shocker, given the nature of the threat. But seniors are a key Reptilican voting block. Oops. Lost 'em.