Assessing the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Fact-Checking Among Journalists in The Gambia

Abstract

Despite numerous fact-checking trainings and its growing adoption, a significant percentage of Gambian journalists lack awareness of fact-checking procedures. This study examines the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Gambian journalists regarding fact-checking, focusing on its impact on the spread of misinformation and the adoption of innovation in journalism. Guided by the Diffusion of Innovation Theory and the Knowledge Gap Theory, this research employed the survey methodology. From a population of 600 practicing journalists, a sample of 234 journalists provided the data for the study. The collected data were statistically analysed using the SPSS software. The findings reveal that while most Gambian journalists are knowledgeable about fact-checking, a “laggard” segment plays a significant role in the widespread dissemination of misleading information. Social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp are identified as primary channels for false information. However, it is evident that many laggards cannot identify advanced forms of misinformation, such as viral audio messages in WhatsApp groups, AI-generated content, and scams. This is largely due to a lack of technical know-how for verification. The study recommends integrating fact-checking into the curricula of journalism schools and providing targeted training for practicing journalists who have not undergone formal fact-checking education. This approach would help eliminate untrained fact-checkers within the profession in The Gambia.