How reporters can get ahead of misinformation
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. PT
Online
These are not ordinary times. The volume of health misinformation, misleading claims and biased language entering the national conversation has reached a fever pitch. The problem is compounded by today’s rapid news cycle, in which accuracy and context can’t wait.
To meet this challenge, journalists increasingly need to fact-check and contextualize claims in real time — whether during live hearings or breaking news events. In this webinar, we’ll share some practical strategies for anticipating misinformation and countering harmful tropes without slowing down your coverage. For instance, savvy reporters might develop a well of “publish ready” copy they can plug into their stories that follows a questionable claim with the best available evidence.
Attendees will also learn how to recognize coded language and dehumanizing or racist tropes in the moment — and how to journalistically respond in a politically charged environment. We’ll share tools, workflows, and ethical considerations to help you deliver speed and rigor on crucial health equity coverage under pressure.
This program is open to all eligible individuals. USC Annenberg operates all of its programs and activities consistent with the University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor.