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Fake News in Educational Communication: A Systematic Review

Article Number: e2025110  |  Published Online: March 2025  |  DOI: 10.22521/edupij.2025.15.110

Rebeca Soler-Costa , Pablo Lafarga-Ostariz , Cristóbal Ballesteros-Regaña , Pedro C. Mellado-Moreno

Abstract

Background/purpose. The authors of this research present a study on Fake News and the communication processes that are generated in different educational and professional contexts through a systematic review.

Materials/methods. This is descriptive research that analyses 139 results present in Web of Science and SCOPUS, using the criteria established by the PRISMA protocol. It gives special relevance to the following categories: country of origin, date of publication, main objectives, methodological design, variables analyzed and considered, size and details of the samples, and their respective scientific contributions in relation to their area of research.

Results.  The results show that this is a new field of study due to the lack of in-depth studies on the subject. Despite this, this analysis provides three major areas of action regarding fake news: its definition, diagnostic tools, and students' perspectives. These phases can be considered and included in current educational policies to curb misinformation and promote adequate media literacy.

Conclusion. The value of this research lies on offering a critical view based on an in-depth analysis of the existing scientific production between Fake News and communication in education.

Keywords: ICT, Fake News, education, digital competence

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