On May 13, 2025, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Informatics at the University of Maribor hosted the conference Media Masters – Who We Are and Where We Are Now? as part of the MediaMasters project. The event attracted a diverse audience, including students, educators, media experts, and members of the wider public.
The conference focused on shedding light on the impact of misinformation on European democracies and emphasized the crucial role of media literacy in today’s society. The opening panel addressed the pressing question of how fake news shapes public opinion and how society can effectively respond. Key speakers included Prof. Dr. Suzana Žilič Fišer, Associate Prof. Dr. Ines Kožuh (both from FERI UM), and Mag. Janez Kne from Press Clipping.
Following the panel, young researchers presented current topics related to digital literacy, algorithmic manipulation, and trust in AI-generated content. A particularly engaging presentation highlighted the challenges faced by deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in Slovenia regarding digital media literacy.
The highlight of the conference was an interactive workshop featuring the board game Media Masters. Participants actively engaged in simulated media decision-making scenarios, practicing how to identify and counter misinformation. The game sparked in-depth discussions and provided valuable insights, which attendees found highly applicable to both educational and professional contexts.
The excellent turnout and quality of discussions underscored the strong need for events like this, especially at a time when access to reliable information is increasingly vital for the functioning of democratic societies.
