New e-learning course on communicating gender statistics aims to cut through fake news and misinformation

A new online course, launched today, offers journalists and statisticians the opportunity to boost their skills with regards to communicating gender statistics.

The free course , available on PARIS21's flagship online learning platform, The PARIS21 Academy , teaches participants how to develop thoughtful and informative communications materials that incorporate gender data in an effective and gender-sensitive manner. The course is aimed at journalists - from bloggers to newsroom editors - and statisticians alike, and combines conceptual study with practical training and guidance. It also focuses on peer learning among journalists and statisticians, and provides essential knowledge on the use of gender statistics to understand and address gender inequalities in society. The course design and content takes into account the transformative role of gender equality advocacy and equips both communities with a new set of skills to engage diverse audiences.

“In today’s polarised world of fake news, misinformation and dubious facts, it is more important than ever before to communicate data accurately, clearly and in a manner that considers the different experiences of men and women,” said Johannes Jütting, PARIS21 Executive Head. “This course will build a community of journalists and statisticians able to get the facts across about gender equality, no matter who they are talking to.”

Papa Seck, Chief Statistician of UN Women said, “UN Women is highly committed to supporting gender statistics, including strong planning, production and use. It is only when gender statistics are communicated and understood that we see use cases that positively affect the lives of women and girls. We are thus delighted to share with you the e-learning course on communicating gender statistics. As a free, easy and accessible learning resource, the course makes gender data meaningful to the public and is a significant step towards bridging the divide between statisticians and users, particularly journalists.”

Developed by PARIS21 and UN Women through the Women Count program, the course incorporates the latest theory and practice on gender statistics communication, including key concepts of gender statistics, gender-sensitive language and visualization. Course development drew on more than 20 years of experience of gender advocacy and thought of both organizations.

The course is available on the PARIS21 Academy website in English, and will take participants around 4 hours (self-paced) to complete.
Visit the PARIS21 Academy and sign up for the free course