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19 pages, 312 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodological Proposal for the Detection of the Composing Elements of Vulnerability Regarding Disinformation

by Belén Puebla-Martínez, Nuria Navarro-Sierra and Gema Alcolea-Díaz

Publications 2021, 9(4), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9040044 - 26 Sep 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3725

We live in a hyper-informed society that is constantly being fed with information stimuli. That information may not be correct, and society may be vulnerable to it. We present a methodological proposal with a mixed approach that allows the learning of the characteristics [...] Read more.

We live in a hyper-informed society that is constantly being fed with information stimuli. That information may not be correct, and society may be vulnerable to it. We present a methodological proposal with a mixed approach that allows the learning of the characteristics and weaknesses of news consumers in the face of disinformation. Said methodology moves away from the traditional model, and with it a new, much more complete and complex way of conducting discussion groups is carried out. The qualitative approach is carried out through the creation of an online community in which subjects are encouraged to participate in different activities and tests. On the other hand, in order to obtain quantitative data, a quasi-experimental survey where respondents are exposed to various stimuli created ad hoc, which seeks to measure the interest and credibility of different news items through an orthogonal design, is carried out. The use of this methodology will allow for an expansive and intensive approach to the knowledge of societal vulnerability factors, and with the subsequent results, a solid basis of disinformation can be established, which will allow for the development of a series of strategies to combat disinformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

21 pages, 5261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Educational Influencers on Instagram: Analysis of Educational Channels, Audiences, and Economic Performance

by Javier Gil-Quintana and Emilio Vida de León

Publications 2021, 9(4), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9040043 - 25 Sep 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 10074

Abstract

Influencers have positioned themselves as opinion leaders capable of influencing large social groups, extending their presence to areas such as education. Instagram is one of the most consolidated social networks focused on the image where citizens interested in educational areas can find information [...] Read more.

Influencers have positioned themselves as opinion leaders capable of influencing large social groups, extending their presence to areas such as education. Instagram is one of the most consolidated social networks focused on the image where citizens interested in educational areas can find information from specialized channels on this topic. The purpose of this study is to analyze, during the period of confinement by COVID-19, the use of Instagram by educational influencers to consolidate their channel in new audiences, influence through interaction with their followers and create their transmedia production. Using a mixed methodological approach, a descriptive analysis of a sample of 810,200 users and a content analysis of 13 profiles of educational influencers is applied. The results show educational influencers as true experts in the use of Instagram, managing visually pleasing and harmonious profiles for new audiences. These influencers reach a large number of users, mostly women between the ages of 25 and 45 with an interest in “motherhood” on the platform. Educational influencers use digital marketing codes in their social networks, with a communicative style adapted to this type of space that seeks to increase the interaction and participation of new audiences and, as a consequence, economic profitability. There is a high number of influencers whose objective is to share educational resources, using their accounts as showcases for their transmedia educational production and for the sale or promotion of their productions and creations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

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8 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Disinformation and Responsibility in Young People in Spain during the COVID-19 Era

by Juana Farfán and María Elena Mazo

Publications 2021, 9(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9030040 - 29 Aug 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3633

Abstract

This paper analyzes the main variables that determine the relationship between disinformation and youth responsibility during the latest stage of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain (from April to June 2021). Are young people keeping well informed during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain? Are [...] Read more.

This paper analyzes the main variables that determine the relationship between disinformation and youth responsibility during the latest stage of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain (from April to June 2021). Are young people keeping well informed during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain? Are the youth behaving responsibly? This document presents several results regarding these questions. In our introduction, we establish a theoretical framework for the following concepts: disinformation, responsibility, credibility, and youth responsibility variables. Our primary interest is in communication factors. The applied methods are a reference review of the national and international literature surrounding this subject and qualitative opinion research conducted through discussion groups with young university students from private and public communication schools in Madrid. A recent study, held in June 2021, provides valuable material for this paper. The main results and findings are as follows: not being satisfied with the information received about COVID-19; knowledge about the most credible news sources; the connection between information and responsibility; and the solutions that are claimed to more responsible in this context by various youth participants. In conclusion, this paper confirms the first hypothesis of considering disinformation as a variable that causes a lack of personal responsibility among youths in complying with public health expectations. Regarding the second hypothesis, we verify that young people consider communication one of the main solutions for being more responsible. In other words, when presented with more information about COVID-19 they feel more aware of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

18 pages, 343 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spanish Fact-Checking Services: An Approach to Their Business Models

by Miguel-Ángel Esteban-Navarro, Antonia-Isabel Nogales-Bocio, Miguel-Ángel García-Madurga and Tamara Morte-Nadal

Publications 2021, 9(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9030038 - 21 Aug 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5100

Abstract

The proliferation of fact-checking services is a fast-growing global phenomenon, especially in Western countries. These services are the response of journalism to disinformation, that has transformed a common internal procedure of journalistic work in the core of a business directed to the general [...] Read more.

The proliferation of fact-checking services is a fast-growing global phenomenon, especially in Western countries. These services are the response of journalism to disinformation, that has transformed a common internal procedure of journalistic work in the core of a business directed to the general public, also offered to the companies of mass media and social media. Literature review shows that the research on fact-checking has focused on the origin, funding, relationship with the media, procedures, and experiences related to politics and COVID-19. However, the ownership structure of the fact-checking services has been superficially analysed and the business model of these platforms has not yet been studied in detail and depth. The objective of this article is to identify and analyse the business model of the nine Spanish active fact-checking services through a documentary research of public information sources and the information that these services give about themselves. This paper explains their ownership structure and income provenance, from open information sources. The findings are that the fact-checking services that depend on media groups are no strangers to the trend of opacity usual in these groups, but in the case of fact-checking services that are born as initiatives of journalists, the trend towards transparency is, in the majority of cases, clear. However, the information provided by the Spanish fact-checking services is deficient and does not allow us to discover their business models, except in the case of Newtral and, to a certain extent, Maldita. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

18 pages, 324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fact Checkers Facing Fake News and Disinformation in the Digital Age: A Comparative Analysis between Spain and United Kingdom

by Casandra López-Marcos and Pilar Vicente-Fernández

Publications 2021, 9(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9030036 - 12 Aug 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 12882

Abstract

The current media ecosystem, derived from the consolidation of Information and Communication Technologies, shows a scenario in which the relationship between the media and their audience is being redefined. This represents a challenge for journalistic practice. In the digital age, the public actively [...] Read more.

The current media ecosystem, derived from the consolidation of Information and Communication Technologies, shows a scenario in which the relationship between the media and their audience is being redefined. This represents a challenge for journalistic practice. In the digital age, the public actively participates in the construction and dissemination of news through social networks. Faced with this loss of control by the media, fake news and disinformation are emerging as one of the main problems of journalistic practice in a competitive business context, and with a high saturation of news content. In this situation, fact checkers emerge as key players in the information verification process. This research comparatively analyses the main fact checkers in Spain and the United Kingdom through content analysis applied to their corporate websites to understand their characteristics and working methodologies. The results underline that they are concerned with the concepts of transparency and honesty, along with showing their funding streams. The rigorousness of the verification process also stands out, as well as the importance of dialogue with the audience in their work. While in Spain they are featured by their non-profit nature and their international coverage, UK fact checkers focus on national information and are sometimes conceived as a business. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

13 pages, 300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Citizen Perceptions of Fake News in Spain: Socioeconomic, Demographic, and Ideological Differences

by David Blanco-Herrero, Javier J. Amores and Patricia Sánchez-Holgado

Publications 2021, 9(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9030035 - 11 Aug 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6114

Abstract

Although the phenomenon of disinformation and, specifically, fake news has become especially serious and problematic, this phenomenon has not been widely addressed in academia from the perspective of consumers, who play a relevant role in the spread of this content. For that reason, [...] Read more.

Although the phenomenon of disinformation and, specifically, fake news has become especially serious and problematic, this phenomenon has not been widely addressed in academia from the perspective of consumers, who play a relevant role in the spread of this content. For that reason, the present study focuses on determining how this phenomenon is perceived by citizens, as the strategies to counteract fake news are affected by such opinions. Thus, the main objective of this study was to identify in which media the perception and experience of fake news is greatest and thus determine what platforms should be focused on to counteract this phenomenon. A survey was conducted in October 2020, among the Spanish adult population and was completed by a total of 423 people (with 421 valid answers). Among its main findings, this study determined that social media platforms are the type of media in which the greatest amount of fake news is perceived, which confirms the suggestions of previous studies. Furthermore, the experienced presence of fake news seems to be primarily affected by age and gender, as there was a higher level of skepticism observed among young people and women. Additionally, the use of media seems to be positively correlated with the perceived and experienced presence of fake news. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

12 pages, 2104 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge in Images and Sounds: Informative, Narrative and Aesthetic Analysis of the Video for MOOC

by Mario Rajas-Fernández, Manuel Gértrudix-Barrio and Miguel Baños-González

Publications 2021, 9(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9030032 - 28 Jul 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3955

Abstract

The virtual courses developed by higher education institutions incorporate the video format as one of the most used resources in the delivery of their online training offer. Within the different types of audiovisual productions found in MOOCs, the introductory or presentation video of [...] Read more.

The virtual courses developed by higher education institutions incorporate the video format as one of the most used resources in the delivery of their online training offer. Within the different types of audiovisual productions found in MOOCs, the introductory or presentation video of the courses has become an illustrative piece of the new edu-communicative context of distance education, when articulating, in the same work, informative, didactic, and advertising content. The objective of this research work is to study the triple communicative nature of this innovative format following a specific methodology of audiovisual textual analysis. For this, 420 videos of this type of promotional video, belonging to 105 universities and educational centres that have developed MOOC courses for the Miríadax platform, are analysed. After checking the results of the formal characteristics, content structures, discursive techniques, and audiovisual language components of the videos, it is concluded that they are mostly pieces linked to the staging style of the classroom, but that, by enriching the visual appearance of a master lesson with audiovisual resources, take advantage of the narrative, aesthetic, and creative potential of audiovisual and advertising communication to capture the attention of the student-spectator, inform about the characteristics of the courses, offer valuable educational content, and generate an image of the brand for the institution responsible for producing the course. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

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10 pages, 297 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Information about Human Evolution: An Analysis of News Published in Communication Media in Spanish between 2015 and 2017

by Jon Ander Garibi, Alvaro Antón and José Domingo Villarroel

Publications 2021, 9(3), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9030028 - 3 Jul 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3016

Abstract

The present study examines a sample of 220 pieces of news related to human evolution, written in Spanish and published over a period of two years, both in digital and print media. The aim of this study is to assess the rigor and [...] Read more.

The present study examines a sample of 220 pieces of news related to human evolution, written in Spanish and published over a period of two years, both in digital and print media. The aim of this study is to assess the rigor and coherence of the information in the news in our sample with scientific knowledge on the theory of evolution. To this end, errors and the incorrect use of concepts related to biological evolution are identified, classified according to criteria resulting from the review of previous studies, and finally, the frequency of errors identified in news published in print media is compared with that identified in digital media. The results presented allow us to highlight the significantly high frequency of errors in the news analyzed and the most frequent error categories. Results are discussed within the frame of the important role that scientific journalism plays in the processes of knowledge dissemination, in this case, related to human evolution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

16 pages, 2432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fake News Reaching Young People on Social Networks: Distrust Challenging Media Literacy

by Ana Pérez-Escoda, Luis Miguel Pedrero-Esteban, Juana Rubio-Romero and Carlos Jiménez-Narros

Publications 2021, 9(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9020024 - 2 Jun 2021

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 26421

Abstract

Current societies are based on huge flows of information and knowledge circulating on the Internet, created not only by traditional means but by all kinds of users becoming producers, which leads to fake news and misinformation. This situation has been exacerbated by the [...] Read more.

Current societies are based on huge flows of information and knowledge circulating on the Internet, created not only by traditional means but by all kinds of users becoming producers, which leads to fake news and misinformation. This situation has been exacerbated by the pandemic to an unprecedented extent through social media, with special concern among young people. This study aims to provide significant data about the youngest generation in Spain (Generation Z) regarding their media and information consumption, their social network use, and their relationship with fake news, all in relation to the feeling of reliability/trust. Focusing on a convenience sample of 408 young Spanish students from Generation Z aged 18 to 22, a descriptive exploratory study is presented. Data collection was performed with an adapted questionnaire. Results show that young Spanish people use networks for information, showing a surprising lack of trust in social networks as the media they consume the most. The content they consume the most since the occurrence of COVID-19 is related to politics, entertainment, humor, and music. On the other hand, distrust of politicians, media, and journalists is evident. The conclusion is that media literacy is still more necessary than ever, but with the added challenge of mistrust: maybe it is time to rethink media literacy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

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17 pages, 1062 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Political Ideology on Fake News Belief: The Portuguese Case

by João Pedro Baptista, Elisete Correia, Anabela Gradim and Valeriano Piñeiro-Naval

Publications 2021, 9(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9020023 - 27 May 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 9253

Abstract

The relationship between a subject’s ideological persuasion with the belief and spread of fake news is the object of our study. Departing from a left- vs. right-wing framework, a questionnaire sought to position subjects on this political-ideological spectrum and demanded them to evaluate [...] Read more.

The relationship between a subject’s ideological persuasion with the belief and spread of fake news is the object of our study. Departing from a left- vs. right-wing framework, a questionnaire sought to position subjects on this political-ideological spectrum and demanded them to evaluate five pro-left and pro-right fake and real news, totaling 20 informational products. The results show the belief and dissemination of (fake) news are related to the political ideology of the participants, with right-wing subjects exhibiting a greater tendency to accept fake news, regardless of whether it is pro-left or pro-right fake news. These findings contradict the confirmation bias and may suggest that a greater influence of factors such as age, the level of digital news literacy and psychological aspects in the judgment of fake news are at play. Older and less educated respondents indicated they believed and would disseminate fake news at greater rates. Regardless of the ideology they favor, the Portuguese attributed higher credibility to the sample’s real news, a fact that can be meaningful regarding the fight against disinformation in Portugal and elsewhere. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

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15 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence and Relationship between Branded Content and the Social Media Consumer Interactions of the Luxury Fashion Brand Manolo Blahnik

by Bárbara Castillo-Abdul, Mónica Bonilla-del-Río and Estela Núñez-Barriopedro

Publications 2021, 9(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9010010 - 1 Mar 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 9925

Abstract

Social networks are particularly significant in marketing and advertising because they provide platforms that offer interactive network channels to develop consumer brands. Among the most useful platforms of this type for capturing leads for businesses of the business to customer are Facebook^® [...] Read more.

Social networks are particularly significant in marketing and advertising because they provide platforms that offer interactive network channels to develop consumer brands. Among the most useful platforms of this type for capturing leads for businesses of the business to customer are Facebook^®. In this sense, this research aims to analyze the degree of influence and relationship between Branded Content and the social media consumer interactions of the luxury fashion firm Manolo Blahnik in the mentioned network. This analysis allows us to see what type of content is more effective in social networks. To do this, an exploratory study was implemented with a review of the literature, followed by a correlation study, with hypothesis set to be contrasted through ANOVA analysis with SPSS software. The conclusion is that social networks facilitate interaction between brands and their followers, allowing the content and messages disseminated to achieve greater impact and commitment to the public and, therefore, increase the engagement between the brand and followers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

15 pages, 1223 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Importance of Rumors in the Spanish Sports Press: An Analysis of News about Signings Appearing in the Newspapers Marca, As, Mundo Deportivo and Sport

by Francisco-Javier Herrero-Gutiérrez and José-David Urchaga-Litago

Publications 2021, 9(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9010009 - 26 Feb 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3882

Abstract

The front pages of newspapers are the main showcase to sell the product. Those first pages are a perfect hook for newspapers to attract readers; thus, it becomes vital to show striking pieces of information, captivating the audience. In the case of the [...] Read more.

The front pages of newspapers are the main showcase to sell the product. Those first pages are a perfect hook for newspapers to attract readers; thus, it becomes vital to show striking pieces of information, captivating the audience. In the case of the written sport press in Spain, there is a key period in which true information is mingled with half-truths and even rumors: The summer transfer window. This paper shows an analysis of the front-page news appearing in the Spanish sports newspapers Marca, As, Mundo Deportivo, and Sport, over a five-year period (2015–2019), based on a sample of 120 different issues of the newspaper. Many times, the media present information either as something true or as a hypothesis or possibility. After quantitatively analyzing that, it can be noticed that in more than 50% of the cases, the signing or sale of the player referenced on the front page (the main news) does not occur. Similarly, it can be observed that there is a direct link connecting the news referring to Real Madrid with Marca and As, and Fútbol Club Barcelona with Mundo Deportivo and Sport. Finally, almost 100% of this news is showed along with real photographs, using photo montage in just a few cases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

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20 pages, 348 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Trust in Public Relations in the Age of Mistrusted Media: A European Perspective

by Ángeles Moreno, Ralph Tench and Piet Verhoeven

Publications 2021, 9(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9010007 - 16 Feb 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 8445

Abstract

One of the core problems of misinformation and post-trust societies is, indeed, trust in communications. The undermining of the credibility of media as the backbone of democratic societies is becoming a serious problem that affects democracy, business and all kinds of public institutions [...] Read more.

One of the core problems of misinformation and post-trust societies is, indeed, trust in communications. The undermining of the credibility of media as the backbone of democratic societies is becoming a serious problem that affects democracy, business and all kinds of public institutions and organizations in society(ies). This paper explores perceptions of trust in key stakeholders involved in communication on behalf of organizations. Findings are considered at the professional (macro), departmental (meso) and individual (micro) level as well as considering the trusted role of non-specialist communicators for organizations including internal and external spokespeople. Data were collected from an online survey of 2883 respondents from 46 countries across Europe. Key findings were at the macro level that: antagonism between management communication professionals and journalists remains. The lowest trust in the profession is felt to be by the general public. At the meso level, top executives are perceived to trust the department the most followed by journalists in second place. External experts such as professors and consultants are perceived to be the most trusted by the general public. Finally, at the micro level individuals are more trusted than organizations or departments and the communication profession more widely. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

16 pages, 297 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Young Spanish Adults and Disinformation: Do They Identify and Spread Fake News and Are They Literate in It?

by Aida María de Vicente Domínguez, Ana Beriain Bañares and Javier Sierra Sánchez

Publications 2021, 9(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications9010002 - 8 Jan 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5928

Abstract

The infodiet of young Spanish adults aged 18 to 25 was analysed to determine their attitude towards fake news. The objectives were: to establish whether they have received any training in fake news; to determine whether they know how to identify fake information; [...] Read more.

The infodiet of young Spanish adults aged 18 to 25 was analysed to determine their attitude towards fake news. The objectives were: to establish whether they have received any training in fake news; to determine whether they know how to identify fake information; and to investigate whether they spread it. The study employed a descriptive quantitative method consisting of a survey of 500 representative interviews of the Spanish population aged between 18 and 25 through a structured questionnaire. The results indicate that they are aware of the importance of training, although generally they do not know of any course and when they do, they do not tend to enroll on one either due to lack of interest or time. These young adults feel that they know how to identify fake content and, moreover, that they know how to do so very well. However, they do not use the best tools. While they do not always verify information, they mainly suspect the credibility of information when it is meaningless. However, they do not tend to spread fake information. We conclude that media information literacy training (MILT) is necessary in educational centres that focuses on the main issues identified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

19 pages, 2516 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Demonization of Islam through Social Media: A Case Study of #Stopislam in Instagram

by Sabina Civila, Luis M. Romero-Rodríguez and Amparo Civila

Publications 2020, 8(4), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications8040052 - 1 Dec 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 18302

Abstract

This article studies the process of demonization, its consequences, and how social media contribute to the formalization of its axiology. The demonization of societies aims to create social subjects that fit into the idea of the “other” by exposing them to compulsory invisibility. [...] Read more.

This article studies the process of demonization, its consequences, and how social media contribute to the formalization of its axiology. The demonization of societies aims to create social subjects that fit into the idea of the “other” by exposing them to compulsory invisibility. This research’s main objective was to examine how demonization is used as a weapon of oppression to devalue specific individuals through the hashtag #StopIslam and Instagram’s role in this process. The methodology used for this purpose has consisted of an empirical and quantitative analysis of the most recent (1 January 2020–31 July 2020) posts on Instagram with #StopIslam, analyzing the images and the content. The study has determined how, through social media manipulation, erroneous ideas are transmitted that prevent the Islamic collective’s integration, especially in European countries. The conclusions will reflect hate speech and how the Islamic world’s demonization results in the Muslim community’s stigmatization, racism, and Islamophobia. Although there are different articles related to demonization and hate speech, there are not many scientific resources that explain these variables on Instagram and how it affects the inclusion of the Muslim community in Europe, significantly when the time spent on the Internet is growing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

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17 pages, 1684 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Literacy and Higher Education during COVID-19 Lockdown: Spain, Italy, and Ecuador

by Santiago Tejedor, Laura Cervi, Ana Pérez-Escoda and Fernanda Tusa Jumbo

Publications 2020, 8(4), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/publications8040048 - 6 Nov 2020

Cited by 147 | Viewed by 19802

Abstract

Digital literacy constitutes the basis for citizenship in order to be effective and efficient in the 21st Century in professional and personal lives. The set of skills and competences integrating digital literacy are expected to be guaranteed in higher education. During the lockdown [...] Read more.

Digital literacy constitutes the basis for citizenship in order to be effective and efficient in the 21st Century in professional and personal lives. The set of skills and competences integrating digital literacy are expected to be guaranteed in higher education. During the lockdown globally imposed for the COVID-19 pandemic, educational systems worldwide had to face many disruptive changes. The aim of this research is to present a comparative study of three countries’ higher education institutions (Spain, Italy, and Ecuador), analyzing how they have faced the global lockdown situation, focusing on the development of digital literacy. The methodological approach followed in this study was quantitative with an exploratory-correlational scope using a questionnaire designed ad hoc and applied in a sample of 376 students. Results point the necessity of enhancing the main aspects such as the teacher’s digital skills, sources for learning that may be adapted, communication between universities and students, and teaching methodologies that should be appropriate to the current context. Conclusions may suggest rethinking higher education learning and reinforcing main issues for this transformation, mainly: communication, teaching, and digital competences. Otherwise, digital literacy is not being guaranteed, which means higher education is not accomplishing one of its main objectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research, Literacy, and Communication Education: New Challenges Facing Disinformation)

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