NAVIGATING AI AND INFORMATION DISORDER: RECONSTRUCTION OF MEDIA LITERACY IN CHINA’S DIGITAL AGE

Abstract

This study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are reshaping the dynamics of disinformation and information disorder amid China's rapid technological advancement. The research reveals the challenges posed by algorithm-driven disinformation propagation and assesses the role of media literacy as a strategic countermeasure. This study employs a qualitative research methodology, grounded in semi-structured interviews with 13 experts across fields including journalism, communication studies, and AI policy. The analytical process draws upon Wardle's ‘information disorder’ framework and gatekeeper theory to elucidate how AI reshapes the creation, production and distribution of disinformation within the Chinese context. Through thematic coding, the research identifies patterns linking AI, disinformation flows, social media platforms, and public media literacy capabilities. Research findings indicate that AI accelerates and amplifies the scale and velocity of disinformation dissemination. This is particularly profound via social media, which acts as the primary platform of dissemination. However, the study also reveals that enhancing public media literacy can mitigate these risks to some extent. Experts interviewed emphasized the crucial need to develop a comprehensive response strategy encompassing technological, institutional and educational measures, while simultaneously advancing the coordinated enhancement of platform accountability and user capabilities. This study combines discussions on AI with digital citizenship, highlighting China's unique experience in addressing the challenge of disinformation. It highlights that media literacy is not merely an individual skill but also forms a collective effort that involves responsible engagement with social media platforms. This is crucial for building a sustainable and resilient information ecosystem across Asia.