Information Commons Initiative

Meeting the Moment: A Bold Educational Response

ASU Thrive Magazine

About the Initiative

We live in an era of unprecedented information complexity. The nonstop flow of content, the rise of generative AI, and growing polarization have made it harder than ever to separate fact from fiction. Students, educators, and communities now face a media landscape where disinformation spreads fast, algorithms reward outrage, and trust in institutions continues to erode.

Arizona State University is stepping up with a bold, coordinated response.

Why ASU? Why Now?

ASU doesn’t wait for change—we lead it. Grounded in our charter and powered by the New American University model, we design scalable, high-impact solutions for the world’s most urgent challenges. That includes preparing learners to navigate and shape the digital information ecosystems that influence democracy, public health, climate action, and beyond.

The Information Commons Initiative, led by ASU’s Learning Transformation Studios, brings together experts from across the university and beyond. We connect disciplines, activate technology, and partner with organizations to build practical, powerful tools for learners of all ages.

 

A Strategic Foundation: The Media Literacy Task Force

In 2023–2024, the Studios partnered with the Office of the Provost to launch a university-wide Media Literacy Task Force. Over 60 faculty and staff from across ASU collaborated to design a comprehensive roadmap for building media literacy into the educational experience.

The resulting report, Fact from Fiction: It Starts with ASU, outlined clear recommendations—including ethical frameworks, curriculum alignment, and tech-enabled tools—that now guide the Information Commons Initiative forward.

Read the Report

 

 

 

What we're building

Our work focuses on four goals:

  • Strengthen critical thinking and information literacy for K–16 students and educators
  • Develop innovative, scalable learning tools using ASU’s tech and design expertise
  • Advance partnerships across sectors to expand reach and impact
  • Position ASU as a global leader in information literacy education

Who We Serve

  • ASU faculty, students, and staff
  • K–12 educators, administrators, and district leaders
  • Higher education leaders and decision-makers
  • Cross-sector partners in media, tech, and civic life

What’s Happening Now

  • Game-Based Learning: We’re developing an immersive digital game with the ASU Endless Games and Learning Lab and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
  • AI-Enabled Course Modules: A new pilot with Axio.ai and the Cronkite School will launch Fall 2025.
  • Strategic Convenings: From ASU+GSV to local and national gatherings, we’re creating space for shared learning and innovation.
  • K–12 Resource Development: We’re building aligned, accessible tools for educators navigating new state mandates and national standards.

 

Join the Movement

We believe every learner deserves the tools to navigate today’s complex information world with confidence and clarity. If your organization shares that vision, we want to connect.

Contact:

Claudia Ramirez Wiedeman, Ph.D.
Deputy Director, ASU Learning Transformation Studios
[email protected]
https://lts.asu.edu