"Escape the Fake": THI student makes children fit for the net

Whether it's fake news, data theft, or dodgy chats, children are exposed to many risks online without being adequately prepared. Media education is often neglected at school. Leon Kindl, 23, a Media Psychology and Digital Business student, has therefore developed a training programme that shows young people how to navigate the internet safely and confidently.

159 pupils learnt with Leon Kindl how to spot fake news – highlight: the digital escape room (Photo: Montessori Ingolstadt).

As part of his Bachelor's Thesis, Leon Kindl has already carried out the training at five schools in Bavaria, including a Montessori secondary school and a business school. A total of 159 pupils took part.

The focus was on topics such as fake news, data protection, cyberbullying and password security - taught at eye level, with exercises in small groups and interactive formats. Particularly popular: the digital escape room "Escape the Fake", in which students have to unmask real and fake content in order to "play free" together.

"I learnt how to recognise fake news and protect myself from strangers on the internet," reports one pupil. The password exercise also provided some aha moments, and was named by most as a favourite station. The fact that the programme is urgently needed was also evident in the final round: After the training, all the children felt better equipped for the digital world, and would recommend it to others.

"The children have a right to understand how they can navigate online safely and independently," says Leon Kindl. "The positive feedback shows me how great the need is - and encourages me to continue the project after my academic studies."

He aims to expand the programme and support public schools throughout southern Germany as an independent media educator. A project with a future - because digital education is no longer an optional extra, but a duty.

 

 

 

 

 

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