Course content

This course teaches interdisciplinary approaches to the study of conspiracy theories and conspiracy thinking, emphasizing methods shown to prevent or reduce harmful conspiracy theories among students.

The course is particularly relevant for teachers in lower secondary school and upper secondary school within the social sciences and KRLE/Religion and ethics.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

The candidate

• has gained theoretical knowledge to teach about conspiracy theories and conspiracy thinking
• has knowledge of some of the most widespread conspiracy theories in Norway and the world today
• has knowledge of specific teaching methods that can prevent/reduce the spread of conspiracy theories/conspiracy thinking among students. Including methods to promote critical-analytical thinking, perspective taking, source criticism, as well as the so-called vaccination strategy
• has knowledge of didactic challenges related to teaching about conspiracy theories and conspiracy thinking

Skills

The candidate

• can develop good didactic methods to reduce/prevent conspiracy theories/conspiracy thinking among students
• can use relevant theory to discuss the likely learning effects of teaching arrangements
• can identify challenges in teaching arrangements and suggest possible solutions
• can identify challenges related to how the school and students face societal crises and conflicts

Learning methods and activities

The course is organized with three compulsory seminars. This can require physical or digital participation given the circumstances. Deadlines for completion of assignments/tasks/deliveries is stated at the beginning of the semester. Work requirements and other assignments that are carried out as part of the seminars will support and promote the candidate's work to achieve the course's learning outcomes.

Working methods in the seminars alternate between lectures, work with assignments individually and in groups, discussions, as well as oral and written presentations.

Compulsory assignments

• Seminar
• Develop and test teaching arrangement

Further on evaluation

• Three compulsory seminars.
• Development and testing of teaching arrangement to reduce/prevent conspiracy theories/conspiracy thinking.
• Semester assignment discussing the teaching arrangement tested in light of relevant theory about conspiracy theories/conspiracy thinking.

The possibility of and content of any compensatory work is assessed individually.

Mandatory work requirements are assessed with approved/not approved.

The semester assignment is assessed as approved/not approved.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Teaching social studies/religious studies or similar courses in middle school/junior high school/high school/lower secondary school/upper secondary school

Required previous knowledge

Currently teaching in the Norwegian school system.

Course materials

Syllabus in both English and Norwegian.