Full course description
Course Introduction
You’ve probably heard it said that we live in a “post-truth” era, where the way a piece of information feels is more important than whether or not it is credible, accurate, or true.
Today, people must grapple with an array of confusing, overwhelming, and sometimes toxic information environments. Information overabundance, weaponized context, manipulated media, and mis- and disinformation of every flavor are now more the rule than the exception when we are online. According to recent data from Pew Research, 17% of teens say they are on TikTok “almost constantly.” The speed of modern networks and the widespread use of mobile devices add a degree of complexity to age-old problems that our brains and attention spans are ill-equipped to handle.
MoC provides you with a set of essential digital skills and habits, including a basic working knowledge of how to navigate the web and social media effectively, as well as activities that foreground how cognitive biases render all of us susceptible to today’s complex forms of “fake news” and manipulated media.
Module Topics Include
Mind Over Chatter 2.0 consists of seven interactive Canvas-based learning modules:
- Framing effects
- Paradox of Authority
- Mere Exposure Effect
- Confirmation Bias
- Mindfulness, Media, and Misinformation
- Artificial Intelligence
- Postdigital Futures
Meet the Creators
Paul Cook, Ph.D. is professor of English at Indiana University Kokomo where he teaches rhetoric, writing, and digital media. His new book, Misinformation Studies and Higher Education in the Postdigital Era: Beyond Fake News (Lexington Books, 2025) explores the role of higher education in addressing the complexities of mis- and disinformation in a digitally saturated world, emphasizing critical thinking and multidisciplinary approaches to foster informed and engaged citizenship.
Mark Canada, Ph.D. is the eighth chancellor of Indiana University Kokomo. A longtime professor of English, he has taught information literacy to hundreds of students and co-authored the textbook Introduction to Information Literacy for Students. He is the author of numerous articles and books, including the Audible Originals Ben Franklin’s Lessons in Life (2021) and Edgar Allan Poe: Master of Horror (2020).
Christina Downey, Ph.D. serves as associate vice chancellor for undergraduate education at Indiana University Indianapolis. A clinical psychologist by training, she has co-edited several volumes on topics related to mental health, positive psychology, and multiculturalism among other peer-reviewed works. She has been recognized for teaching excellence and collaborates across campus for student success.
Polly Boruff-Jones is professor and dean of University Libraries at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan, and Dean Emerita at Indiana University Kokomo. Throughout her career, she has focused on: engaging with students to understand their approach to gathering and evaluating information to ensure students have the skills they need to be successful in their academic pursuits, in their careers and as informed, productive citizens.
Chris Gilbert, EdD is an Online Instructional Designer (Lead/Embedded, School of Social Work) who joined eLearning Design and Services in 2023. He collaborates with subject matter experts in the School of Social Work and various other disciplines to design, create, and assist faculty members with their courses.
Sulina Mackey is an Online Instructional Designer (Lead) who has been with eLearning Design and Services since 2021. She works closely with subject matter experts to design both credit and non-credit courses across multiple disciplines, ensuring high-quality educational experiences.