Challenges, coping strategies, and attitude towards infodemic among information professionals on new normal

Abstract

This study explores the challenges, coping strategies, and attitudes of information professionals in managing the infodemic in the new normal. The increasing prevalence of misinformation and disinformation has posed significant challenges to information professionals responsible for filtering and disseminating credible information. Utilizing a descriptive-correlational research design, the study surveyed 79 licensed information professionals from various library settings in Iloilo City. Data were collected through a validated and pilot-tested questionnaire and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson’s r correlation. Findings revealed that information professionals encounter moderate to high levels of challenges in dealing with the infodemic, including information overload, digital misinformation, and public distrust in credible sources. In response, they employ various coping strategies, such as critical information evaluation, fact-checking, and media literacy promotion. Attitudes towards the infodemic were assessed across cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains, with results indicating that most professionals maintained a positive outlook despite the difficulties. The study further identified significant relationships between the challenges faced, coping mechanisms adopted, and attitudes held by information professionals. The findings underscore the need for continuous professional development in misinformation management, institutional support for librarians in digital literacy initiatives, and collaborative efforts between information professionals, policymakers, and the public to mitigate the effects of infodemics. These results contribute valuable insights for enhancing information literacy programs and reinforcing the role of librarians as key defenders against misinformation in the digital age.