Harnessing multimodal and multilingual science communication to combat misinformation in a diverse country setting
by
Kim Trollip,
Michael Gastrow,
Shandir Ramlagan
and
Yolande Shean
This practice insight explores how translation and multimedia formats, such as video and audio, can enhance science communication efforts to combat community-driven misinformation and build trust within communities. Focusing on a national HIV survey, it details strategies for countering misinformation spread via platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp, which falsely accused data collectors of criminal activity. The research team’s response included multilingual, multimodal digital communication and community engagement, demonstrating the effectiveness of this blended approach in restoring trust and dispelling misinformation in diverse social and linguistic settings.
Volume 23 • Issue 09 • 2024 • Special Issue: Public (dis)trust in science in digital media environments