Product Overview: The Journal FactCheck
Introduction
The Journal FactCheck is a dedicated unit within The Journal, one of Ireland’s most-read online news sources, focused on combating misinformation and disinformation across a wide range of subjects. Established in early 2016, this unit is committed to providing independent, objective, and trustworthy information to the public.
Key Mission and Objectives
The primary mission of The Journal FactCheck is to reduce the noise and confusion in public discourse by:
- Providing free, unbiased, and quality information.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in their fact-checking processes.
- Empowering readers with the tools to distinguish between reliable and unreliable content.
Key Features and Functionality
Fact-Checking Process
The Journal FactCheck employs a rigorous and transparent fact-checking process that includes:
- Identifying and evaluating claims from various sources such as TV and radio, Dáil debates, social media platforms, and statements from non-profit groups.
- Linking to raw, public data where available and clearly naming and defining any expert advice and input from external sources.
- Applying one of eight ratings to fact-checks or providing clear explanations for debunking misinformation.
Content and Resources
The unit produces a variety of content, including:
- Explanatory Articles: Detailed explanations on various topics to help the public make informed decisions.
- Prebunking Materials: Resources aimed at preemptively addressing potential misinformation.
- Factfinds and Deep Dive Journalism: In-depth investigations into specific claims and topics.
- Monthly Analysis Reports: Regular updates on trends and movements in misinformation and disinformation.
Tools and Guides
The Journal FactCheck offers several tools and guides to enhance media literacy, such as:
- The Knowledge Bank: A resource hub that provides insights into how stories are told online, context behind content, and tools to sift through authentic and helpful information.
- Toolkits and Tutorials: Guides, tips, and tutorials to help audiences recognize and manage suspect or manipulated content both online and offline.
Collaborations and Partnerships
The unit is the only verified Republic of Ireland signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) and serves as the fact-checking partner for Ireland’s EDMO hub (European Digital Media Observatory). It also collaborates with other fact-checkers and organizations to build tools and partnerships against disinformation.
Transparency and Accountability
The Journal FactCheck is fully compliant with the Press Council of Ireland and adheres to the IFCN’s Code of Principles. The unit ensures transparency by outlining every step of their fact-checking process, allowing readers to follow their work from start to finish.
Impact and Goals
The ultimate goal of The Journal FactCheck is to equip readers with the skills to make informed decisions by providing high-quality, trustworthy information. By doing so, the unit aims to contribute to a more informed public discourse and reduce the impact of misinformation and disinformation in society.