MEDIA AND INFORMATION LITERACY AND EDUCATION FOR DEMOCRACY IN TIMES OF DISINFORMATION

Resumen

The expansion of digital platforms, social media, and, more recently, generative Artificial Intelligence tools has transformed the ways in which information is produced, distributed, selected, and interpreted. In this context, disinformation has become an educational challenge that extends beyond the ability to identify false content, encompassing an understanding of information-circulation processes, source evaluation, recognition of interests and discursive strategies, interpretation of different languages and modes, and responsible participation in digital environments. This chapter aims to analyze how media and information literacy can contribute to educating individuals capable of participating critically in democratic life in contexts marked by disinformation, algorithmic mediation, and the growing automated production of content. Methodologically, this is a qualitative bibliographic and documentary study grounded in recent research on media literacy, digital education, disinformation, citizenship, digital platforms, and Artificial Intelligence, as well as documents produced by UNESCO. The analysis also considers studies on inclusion, accessibility, and digital inequalities, recognizing that the development of critical competencies depends not only on the existence of technologies, but also on concrete conditions of access, participation, and education. It is argued that media education must move beyond instrumental approaches and isolated fact-checking practices by incorporating critical media analysis, responsible authorship, an understanding of content-circulation mechanisms, the interpretation of algorithmic environments, and respect for plurality. It is concluded that education for democracy in contexts of disinformation requires continuous educational processes capable of integrating critical thinking, communicative responsibility, rights, participation, and a critical understanding of the technologies that structure the contemporary information ecosystem.