Investigating Algorithmic Misconceptions in a Media Context: Source of a New Digital Divide?

[摘要] Algorithms are widely used in our data‐driven media landscape. Many misconceptions have arisen about how these algo‐rithms work and what they can do. In this study, we conducted a large representative survey (N = 2,106) in the Netherlandsto explore algorithmic misconceptions. Results showed that a significant part of the general population holds (multiple)misconceptions about algorithms in the media. We found that erroneous beliefs about algorithms are more commonamong (1) older people (vs. younger people), (2) lower‐educated people (vs. higher‐educated), and (3) women (vs. men).In addition, it was found that people who had no specific sources to inform themselves about algorithms, and those relyingon their friends/family for information, were more likely to have algorithmic misconceptions. Conversely, media channels,school, and having one’s own (online) experiences were found to be sources associated with having fewer algorithmic mis‐conceptions. Theoretical implications are formulated in the context of algorithmic awareness and the digital divide. Finally,societal implications are discussed, such as the need for algorithmic literacy initiatives.

[学科分类] 医学（综合）

[关键词] algorithms;algorithmic awareness;digital divide;misconceptions;technology