| Duration: 10-20 min Number of players: 1-2 Materials: Online link Links: https://harmonysquare.game/en |
Unify a community divided by fake news…
Short Description
Harmony Square is a free browser game that briefly introduces players to the topic of fake news. As leading disinformation officers, they are guided to transform the fictional and actually very idyllic neighbourhood Harmony Square into a place characterised by agitation and extremely divided opinions rather than peace and quiet. As a result, the players are to be educated about common forms of manipulation by putting themselves in the position of someone who wants to deceive people with the help of various tactics and gain a larger following at the same time.
Educational Value
- Develop personal and professional skills –communication, strategy, reflection, learning about new perspectives, tolerance, diversity, critical thinking
- Knowledge about different types of manipulation
Recommendations for use
- For people from 15 years
- Can be used as a support in a teaching unit with a focus on media education
Tips and tricks
How to adapt game for different groups, topics, occasions/needs: The game is available in several languages and could also be used in English classes, for example.
Feedback questions
- What methods were used to manipulate people in the game?
- Which methods were particularly effective?
- How do the methods build on each other or how do they interlock?
- How can you protect yourself from these manipulation techniques?
- What are the dangers of fake news and deliberate manipulation?
- What are the implications of fake news for the formation of opinion in a democracy?
- What is the value of truth in these situations? (Truth as an ideal to strive for versus influence and reach; attention as the highest good)
- How do I recognize false information?
- How do I deal with emotionally charged topics?
- How do I carry out a fact check?
- How can I recognize a reputable source?
- What tools are there to check news?
Further discussion topics
- Fake News
- Manipulation
- Literature research
