The antidote? Search for what you want, rather than passively yielding to algorithms. Even if something intriguing pops up as a suggestion, try searching for it manually instead. 

Unless you’re willing to avoid ALL internet usage, there’s little you can do to avoid being tracked online. But there are some ways to control what ads you see and how the ads are tailored to you.  Try blocking ads, avoiding recommendations and clearing cookies, etc., which can help a little in protecting privacy online,” said Andrew Clement, professor in the Faculty of Information at the University of Toronto. However, this will be of limited value as long as social media platforms like Facebook make their fortunes selling their users' data and attention to advertisers and any others who want to manipulate them. (Globalnews.ca)

Another option is to use algorithms to your advantage, by deliberately engaging with the kind of content and sources you want more of. In other words, feed the curation machine spinach rather than potato chips, and it will be more likely to offer you a healthy diet in return. (Discovermagazine.com)

Click to learn more child-friend tips about algorithms.

Fact-Checking News Sources

Lesson: News Media Bias - Checkology.org

Do you know the following terms?

Bias is a human trait resulting from our tendency to classify people, places or things into categories as our brain attempts to quickly process information and make sense of the world.

With explicit bias, individuals are aware of their prejudices and attitudes toward certain groups. Positive or negative preferences for a particular person/group are conscious (think Kpop bias). Overt racism and racist comments are other examples of explicit biases.

We use the term “implicit bias” to describe when we have attitudes towards people or associate stereotypes with them without our conscious knowledge. For example, when most people hear the word “kindergarten teacher,” they are more likely to picture a woman. Implicit bias is a universal phenomenon, not limited by race, gender, or even country of origin. Take this test to see how it works for you: Project Implicit AIT (Harvard)

Confirmation Bias is only seeking out information that agrees with your existing ideas and beliefs. It can also involve accepting information as true because it agrees with what you already think. This is a personal bias that effects the way you choose sources.

Recognizing various perspectives and political leanings is the key to interpreting the validity (authenticity and quality) of a news source.  When seeking information, be it news or gossip, it is important to utilize a variety of sites and sources to fact-check a story to get the full picture.  Read and evaluate ALL the information for yourself.

Credible Fact-Check Sites:

• All Sides Media

• AP Fact Check

• Reuters Fact-Check

• Media Bias Fact Check

Explore more options with Common Sense Media.