Decoding Data Centers: Media Messages and Bias
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Provided by: Project Look Sharp|Published on: January 7, 2026
Lesson PlansScientist Reviewed
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Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- In this media literacy activity from Project Look Sharp, students will analyze media messages from different sources about the sustainability of data centers.
- Students will view an infographic about the environmental costs of data centers, a video from Google about the sustainability of their data centers, a news clip about a data center proposed in Arizona, and a TikTok talking about Northern Virginia as the data center capital of the world.
Subjects: Civics, English Language Arts
Authors: Project Look Sharp
Region: Global, Arizona, Virginia
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- This activity does a great job of reminding students to consider the source and motive behind pieces of media.
- Students will enjoy seeing familiar media formats, such as TikTok videos.
Prerequisites
- In the activity plan, the link for the Do-It-Yourself Guide is not clickable
Differentiation & Implementation
- When watching the Google video, students may be interested in further exploring what it means to purchase renewable energy to match the energy consumed. Students can research renewable energy credits, as well as carbon offsets and other methods used by corporations to satisfy their environmental commitments.
- Teachers can use this activity in a conversation about the environmental impacts of AI, its increased use, and the need for more and more data centers. This article can also be used to inform such a conversation.
- Students can observe and discuss the media in small groups to get out their thoughts before participating in a whole-group discussion.
This resource has students explore media bias by watching and reading different pieces of media about data centers. Students will analyze the media and investigate whether the source is biased, and present a fair and accurate representation of its topic, which in this case is data centers and their impact on the environment. Analyzing and questioning the bias and accuracy of media and information sources is an essential skill for students, especially as they are exposed to more sources of information and start learning, researching, and exploring topics independently. Through this lesson, students will also learn about the environmental concerns with data centers, as well as the positive benefits these centers can bring. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
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Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
Project Look Sharp
Project Look Sharp is a nonprofit, mission-driven outreach program of Ithaca College. Their mission is to help K-16 educators enhance students' critical thinking, metacognition, and civic engagement through media literacy materials and professional development.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
