The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals Scotland (CILIPS) has funded Bruce to undertake research into the ways that school librarians can help pupils understand the implications of misinformation (i.e. incorrect information that has been created and disseminated by mistake) and disinformation (i.e. false information that has been deliberately created and disseminated with intent to mislead).

Bruce will collect qualitative and quantitative data from school librarians by focus group and in interviews on their: (1) efforts to help pupils in navigating challenging information landscapes and handling misinformation and disinformation; (2) training needs in fulfilling this role; and (3) collaborative work with teachers to address pupils’ understanding of misinformation and disinformation.

The outputs of this research will include content to be hosted on the CILIPS blog, shareable infographics, a research paper, and a session at the CILIPS conference in summer 2025. It is also anticipated that the research findings will provide a foundation for CILIPS‘ future advocacy work.

Find out more about the CILIPS Research Fund and the 2024/5 award recipients on the CILIPS blog, and about Bruce’s new grant on his own blog.