CTRL-MEDIA
Learning together. Media literacy across generations.
The project addresses the growing impact of disinformation and AI-generated fake content by connecting young people (15–30) and senior citizens (60+) in a structured learning journey. Through workshops, intergenerational labs, and a final “Fake News Museum & Exhibition”, CTRL-MEDIA empowers participants to critically assess online information, foster dialogue across generations, and actively contribute to democratic life.
Background
Disinformation and information manipulation represent increasing threats to democratic societies. Citizens across Europe report regular exposure to fake news and AI-generated content that is difficult to identify.
Young people, despite being digitally active, often lack critical evaluation skills and historical perspective. Seniors, on the other hand, may possess strong life experience and civic awareness but frequently struggle with digital tools and online risks. Both groups are vulnerable in different ways, and both are essential for strengthening democratic participation.
CTRL-MEDIA responds to this challenge by combining media literacy, civic engagement, and intergenerational learning in a transnational framework aligned with the CERV priority on countering disinformation and protecting democratic debate.
General Objective
To enhance democratic resilience and media literacy across generations by fostering meaningful intergenerational cooperation in five EU countries.
Specific Objectives
- Equip youth and seniors with practical skills to identify and counter disinformation, especially AI-driven misinformation.
- Empower young people, particularly NEETs and those with fewer opportunities, through civic engagement and digital mentorship roles.
- Strengthen digital confidence and critical thinking among senior citizens.
- Foster intergenerational dialogue, empathy, and democratic participation.
- Develop inclusive, accessible, and gender-sensitive training methodologies.
- Raise public awareness at local and European level about digital threats to democracy.
TARGET GROUPS
CTRL-MEDIA focuses on two primary target groups and several indirect beneficiaries.
1. Young People (15–30 years old)
Young participants are selected due to their high presence in digital environments and their potential to act as digital mentors. Particular attention is given to:
- NEET youth
- Young people with fewer opportunities
- Youth from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds
- Young women facing digital confidence gaps
They will develop critical thinking, media analysis skills, digital safety awareness, and mentoring competences. They will also engage in intergenerational dialogue and civic reflection.
2. Senior Citizens (60+ years old)
Seniors are increasingly active online but often lack structured digital literacy support. The project prioritizes:
- Seniors with limited digital skills
- Older women facing digital exclusion
- Seniors from isolated or disadvantaged contexts
They will strengthen digital awareness, resilience to online scams and misinformation, and storytelling skills to share life experiences and civic reflections.
MAIN ACTIVITIES
CTRL-MEDIA follows a progressive and structured implementation plan combining international and local actions.
1. International Intergenerational Conference & Training of Trainers
The project begins with a transnational conference bringing together partners, youth, and seniors.
2. Preparatory Local Workshops
Each partner country organizes separate workshops for youth and seniors.
Youth Workshops – “Digital Mentoring 101”
Senior Workshops – “My Story, My Voice”
3. Local Intergenerational Labs
In each country, three intergenerational labs bring youth and seniors together.
4. Fake News Museum & Exhibition (Final International Event)
The project culminates in an international public event
The exhibition is designed as a mobile, replicable format that can continue beyond the project duration.
Here you can read the results of the project’s events in the form of the Event Description Sheet:
Project funded under the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme.
Funded by the Europian Union. However, the views expressed belong solely to the author(s) and not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the EACEA can be held responsible for them.
Partners
