Fighting Fake Health News: A Fun Way to Learn

Healthcare workers often face patients who believe false information about diseases. This can make their jobs harder. A new teaching method is trying to change that. It combines learning with entertainment. This method is called edutainment.

How It Works

The idea is simple:

1. Learn about false health information.
2. Watch TV shows where patients talk about these false beliefs.
3. Rewrite the scenes using a special talking method called motivational interviewing. This method helps patients feel understood and listened to.

The Results

A small group of students tried this method. Most were women and white. After the lessons:

• They felt more comfortable talking to patients about false health beliefs.
• They got better at spotting false information.
• Many said they would use empathy more when talking to patients. Empathy is a big part of motivational interviewing.

Future Potential

This teaching method could work for other health students too. It's easy to change and use in different places. It might help future healthcare workers deal with false health information better.

The Big Question

But, is this the best way to teach? It's fun and engaging. But does it really prepare students for real-life situations? Only time will tell.