Podcast
Questions and Answers
Robinson wants to use social media to find the best way to build a shelter on his new property. What is one benefit and one weakness of using social media for this purpose?
Robinson wants to use social media to find the best way to build a shelter on his new property. What is one benefit and one weakness of using social media for this purpose?
Benefit: He can quickly gather diverse ideas from many people through the 'wisdom of the crowd.' Weakness: The information he receives may lack verification and could be unreliable.
Freitag is concerned about the potential for social media to create 'information bubbles.' Explain what an information bubble is and how it might affect Freitag's understanding of current events.
Freitag is concerned about the potential for social media to create 'information bubbles.' Explain what an information bubble is and how it might affect Freitag's understanding of current events.
An information bubble is a situation where algorithms and user choices lead individuals to primarily encounter information confirming their existing beliefs. This can limit exposure to diverse perspectives, potentially skewing Freitag’s understanding of current events and polarizing his views.
Robinson wants to share his experiences on the island. Describe two different types of social media platforms he could use and what type of content would be suited for each platform.
Robinson wants to share his experiences on the island. Describe two different types of social media platforms he could use and what type of content would be suited for each platform.
He could use a weblog to write detailed accounts of his daily life and reflections. Alternatively, he could use a sharing portal to post photos and videos of the island’s landscape and his activities.
Robinson notices that companies are sending him targeted advertisements based on his social media activity. Explain how companies use social media to target advertising and what potential benefit or risk this poses for Robinson.
Robinson notices that companies are sending him targeted advertisements based on his social media activity. Explain how companies use social media to target advertising and what potential benefit or risk this poses for Robinson.
Freitag wants to verify the accuracy of information he finds on social media. What are two critical evaluation steps that Freitag should take before he believes information he sees online?
Freitag wants to verify the accuracy of information he finds on social media. What are two critical evaluation steps that Freitag should take before he believes information he sees online?
Flashcards
Social Media
Social Media
Digital media and technologies for online exchange and collaborative content creation.
Forums
Forums
Platforms for users to discuss various topics.
Weblogs
Weblogs
Individual users write about topics of interest.
"Wisdom of the Crowd"
"Wisdom of the Crowd"
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Information Bubble
Information Bubble
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Study Notes
- Robinson, after living on a deserted island, returns to civilization and discovers social media.
- He consults his friend Freitag to understand what social media is.
Definition of Social Media
- Social media involves digital media and technologies used for online exchange and collaborative content creation.
- This includes commenting, reviewing posts, and recommending items like restaurants or films.
- Users form relationships and communities, hence the term "social media."
Types of Social Media Platforms
- Forums: Platforms for users to discuss various topics.
- Weblogs: Individual users write about anything they find interesting.
- Microblogs: Similar to weblogs but faster and more concise.
- Wikis: Open platforms providing knowledge on specific topics.
- Social Bookmark Portals: Help categorize web content by themes.
- Review Platforms: Assist with purchase decisions.
- Sharing Portals: Enable users to share various types of files.
- Social Networks: Combine nearly all other offerings on a single platform.
Benefits of Social Media
- Social media harnesses the "wisdom of the crowd" through the collective knowledge of many users.
- Example: Robinson asks how to desalinate water and quickly receives multiple answers.
Weaknesses
- Shared knowledge lacks verification, as there are no scientific or journalistic standards.
- Users should critically evaluate information found on social media.
User Influence
- Users can influence their public image by posting content reflecting their interests and activities.
- Companies can target advertising based on users' disclosed interests and hobbies.
Risks and Concerns
- Computer programs can identify user interests and send content aligned with those interests, potentially creating an information bubble.
- Different viewpoints are obscured potentially limiting diversity of opinion.
- Verifying the authenticity of information is difficult.
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Description
An explanation of what social media is including its technologies for online exchange and content creation. It explores different social media platforms, ranging from forums and weblogs to wikis and social networks. Furthermore, it touches upon how users form relationships and communities.
