About this Project
Our project investigates the spread and impact of TGNB (Transgender and Non-Binary) misinformation online. We explore critical questions such as the scale of misinformation, the topics it covers, its variation across platforms, and the harm it causes. Additionally, we examine the gaps in existing efforts to combat this misinformation and design effective countermeasures. By addressing these issues, we aim to support the TGNB community and online platforms in better managing misinformation, ultimately benefiting other marginalized groups as well.
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FAQs
What is research?
The goal of research is to learn new things in order to help people in the future. Investigators learn things by following the same plan with a number of participants, so they do not usually make changes to the plan for individual research participants. You, as an individual, may or may not be helped by volunteering for a research study.
Why am I being invited to take part in this research study?
We are asking you to take part in this research study because we are interested in understanding the spread of transgeder and non-binary community related misinformation in online platforms such as Reddit and TikTok. You need to be an English-speaking US Adult (18+) and these platform users to be eligible for the study. We have advertised for this study and you have shown interest on the ad. That is why you have been invited to take part in it.
What should I know about a research study?
● Someone will explain this research study to you.
● Whether or not you take part is up to you.
● You can choose not to take part.
● You can agree to take part and later change your mind.
● Your decision will not be held against you.
● You can ask all the questions you want before you decide.
Why is this research being done?
There are two components to the study. First, to understand the spread of Misinformation related to transgender community in online social media by examining differences in spread across individuals, topics, and platforms. Second, we would to examine ways we can help individuals identify these misinformation by designing tools.
How long will the research last?
We expect that you will be in this research study for 10-15 minutes.
What will I need to do to participate?
You will be asked to provide your anonymous watch history on TikTok
What happens if I do not want to be in this research?
There are no known alternatives, other than deciding not to participate in this research study.
Is there any way that being in this study could be bad for me?
We do not anticipate any such outcome from sharing your anonymous watch history.
Will being in this study help me in any way?
We do not anticipate any direct benefit to you for participating in research.
About Us
We are a dedicated team from the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) working under the guidance of Professor Momen Bhuiyan (PI) - Stanley Sujith Nelavala (GRA, 2nd year MSCS). Together, we are committed to making a positive impact through our research.