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WEEK 10: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP AND SOCIAL MEDIA CONFLICT

As we navigate the broad landscape of online contacts, we must comprehend the importance of conflict, the function of social media administration, and the critical issue of online harassment. So, let us get started!

1. Why look at conflict?

Conflict is a natural element of human interactions, and the online world is no different. Examining conflict within the context of digital citizenship allows us to better appreciate the intricacies and challenges that individuals experience in online communities. By investigating the origins and repercussions of conflict, we may help to create a more inclusive and courteous online community.

2. Social media governance

Social media platforms play an important role in determining the digital citizenship environment. They serve as virtual public spaces in which people may express themselves, participate in discussions, and build communities. However, enormous power brings great responsibility. Social media governance refers to the policies, rules, and procedures that platforms use to manage user activity to provide a secure and healthy online ecosystem.

Effective social media administration requires striking a balance between free expression and protecting users from hazardous content and online harassment. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram use community norms, content control, and reporting tools to protect user safety (Smith et al., 2008). These governance methods strive to promote a positive online experience while upholding ethical norms.

3. Online harassment

One of the most important issues in the digital citizenship scene is online abuse. It refers to the use of internet channels to intimidate, threaten, or hurt individuals. Cyberbullying, doxing, hate speech, and the non-consensual disclosure of personal information are all forms of online harassment. Its effects on victims can be severe, causing psychological distress, social isolation, and even offline consequences.

Addressing online harassment involves a multifaceted approach that includes individuals, communities, and platform providers. Education is critical in increasing digital literacy and creating empathy among users. Individuals may make educated decisions and contribute to a healthier online environment if they are made aware of the implications of harassment.

Platforms are also responsible for combating online harassment. They can put in place effective reporting mechanisms, improve content moderation algorithms, and provide supports to victims. Collaborations between law enforcement, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions can help to provide a complete response to online abuse.

References:

K. Smith, P, Mahdavi, J, Carvalho, M, Fisher, S, Russell, S & Tippett, 2008, Cyberbullying: its nature and impact in secondary school pupils, vol. 49 (4), The Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, pp. 376–385, viewed 24 March 2024, <https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2007.01846.x>

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WEEK 9: GAMING COMMUNITIES, SOCIAL GAMING AND LIVE STREAMING

Since the introduction of Pong in the 1970s, gaming has evolved significantly. Video games have grown from humble beginnings to a global phenomenon, fostering not only technology advancements but also lively communities and cultures. In this post, we'll look at the fascinating history of video games, the distinct culture around gaming, the importance of gaming communities, and the emergence of live streaming in gaming culture. Let's go on an exciting voyage across the worlds of pixels and enthusiastic players.

1. History of video games:

Video games are interactive digital games that can be played on multiple devices, including smartphones, laptops, and consoles. They often feature one or more players directing characters in a virtual environment to complete objectives, overcome problems, and reach game goals. The history of video games began in the 1950s and 1960s, when programmers began developing simple games and simulations on early minicomputers. A notable example is Spacewar!, which was created by MIT students in 1962. The game presents a basic space combat scenario in which two players control spaceships and engage in fight in a 2D space setting.

In 2005 and 2006, Microsoft's Xbox 360, Sony's Playstation 3, and Nintendo's Wii launched the current era of high-definition gaming. Though the Playstation 3—the only system at the time capable of playing Blu-ray discs—was a success in its own right, Sony faced significant competition for the first time (Editors 2017). Within just a few years prior back until this date, the gaming industry has been thriving through nonstop revolutions in terms of experiences for game players (a.k.a gamers). Many families now play video games together as a result of improved control mechanisms and family-friendly games. Online games have continued to evolve, attracting record numbers of players (University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing 2010).

2. The culture of gaming:

Gaming has grown into a robust subculture with a rich tapestry of shared beliefs, rituals, and artistic expression. Beyond simply pleasure, gaming has become a way of life for millions of fans worldwide. Within this dynamic culture, gamers embrace their love of gaming, developing distinct subcultures with their own complicated rituals, specialized lingo, and beloved inside jokes. This immersive culture rewards not only skill mastery and fierce rivalry, but also limitless creativity and the pure joy of exploring virtual worlds.

At the heart of gaming culture is a set of common beliefs that bring together players from various backgrounds. These values include perseverance, strategic thinking, problem solving, teamwork, and adaptability. Gamers frequently exemplify these characteristics as they progress through virtual trials, developing their abilities and conquering difficulties. These shared ideals transcend the virtual world, impacting how gamers approach real-life events, encouraging resilience, and cultivating a growth mentality.

Furthermore, gaming culture has spawned a thriving environment for artistic expression and storytelling. Video games have evolved into immersive narratives, enthralling players with complex plots, unique characters, and graphically appealing settings. The media has evolved beyond its original aim of amusement, today serving as a forum for thought-provoking social criticism, emotive storytelling, and even the examination of deep philosophical issues. Gamers engage with these narratives, developing strong bonds with the storylines and characters, and they frequently participate in conversations and fan creations that take the gaming experience beyond the screen.

3. Gaming communities:

One of the most engaging and engrossing features of gaming is the vibrant communities it fosters. Gamers build communities, both online and offline, around shared hobbies, gaming genres, platforms, or even specific titles. These communities foster a deep sense of belonging, support, and camaraderie among their members. The power of these communities is demonstrated through a variety of platforms, including online gaming forums, social media groups, and multiplayer experiences that allow users to connect, collaborate, and compete with fellow gaming aficionados from all over the world. Friendships are formed, teamwork is fostered, and a shared enthusiasm for the virtual realms grows inside these lively gaming communities.

Online gaming forums are virtual gathering places where users may share ideas, seek assistance, and discuss many elements of gaming. These forums allow gamers to connect with others who have similar gaming interests. Discussions vary from gaming techniques and tactics to the most recent industry news and advancements. Furthermore, these forums might be useful for addressing technical issues, exchanging mods or customizations, and discovering new gaming opportunities.

In addition to forums, social media sites have become critical in building gaming communities. Groups and pages dedicated to specific games or genres enable gamers to interact, share experiences, and engage in conversations outside of a single forum. Social media platforms also make it easier to organize gaming-related activities like virtual tournaments or charity streams, which help to create community bonds.

4. Live-streaming in gaming culture:

Live streaming has emerged as a game changer in the gaming industry, transforming how players interact with video games and linking them to a massive worldwide audience. Platforms like as Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Mixer have transformed gaming into an exciting spectator sport. With the introduction of live streaming, gamers may now broadcast their gameplay experiences in real-time, giving viewers a front-row seat to their virtual excursions.

Live streaming systems include a variety of features that increase the participatory nature of the gaming experience. Gamers can interact with their viewers via live chat, developing a feeling of community and providing a direct channel of connection with their audience. This real-time contact enables gamers to get rapid feedback, answer questions, and form relationships with their audience. Furthermore, live streaming services allow content creators to earn money through memberships, donations, sponsorships, and ad income.

The rise of live streaming has not only provided a new platform for aspiring content creators to exhibit their gaming abilities and personalities, but it has also resulted in a loyal fan following. Viewers can interact with their favorite players, building communities and cultivating a sense of fandom. These communities frequently expand outside the gaming sphere, with fans engaging in discussions, creating fan art, and attending events relating to their favorite streamers. Live streaming has helped gamers connect with their fans, forming a link that spans geographical bounds.

Furthermore, live broadcasting has made gaming a social experience. Viewers can watch live tournaments, esports events, and gaming marathons at the same time, creating a sense of community and competition. This social aspect of live streaming has resulted in specialized fan bases for individual games or streams, with viewers actively interacting with one another and building virtual communities based on their common interests.

The influence of live broadcasting extends beyond entertainment and community building. It has also evolved into a forum for educational information, with players providing tips, methods, and lessons to help others improve their gaming abilities. Furthermore, live streaming has made it easier to discover new game releases, allowing viewers to play games before making a purchase choice.

References:

Editors, H com 2017, Video Game History, HISTORY, viewed 21 March 2024, https://www.history.com/topics/inventions/history-of-video-games#modern-age-of-gaming.

University of Minnesota 2010, Understanding Media and Culture, UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA LIBRARIES PUBLISHING, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, pp. 484–500.

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WEEK 8: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP AND SOFTWARE LITERACY - INSTAGRAM FILTERS

In the digital age, individuals must be responsible digital citizens and acquire software literacy skills in order to efficiently traverse the online terrain. Understanding and using augmented reality (AR) filters, which have grown in popularity on social media platforms such as Instagram, is an important component of digital citizenship. In this post, we will look at Instagram filters, how they affect digital citizenship, and what the future holds for AR filters, as well as potential solutions for responsible usage.

1. Augmented Reality (AR) Filters:

Augmented reality filters, commonly known as AR filters, are digital overlays that enhance or modify a user's appearance or environment in real-time. These filters utilize computer vision technology to track facial features and apply various effects, such as adding virtual makeup, altering backgrounds, or transforming faces into whimsical characters. AR filters have become a creative and interactive way for individuals to express themselves and engage with their online communities. They are frequently applied to users' faces, such as adding "cool" clothing, refining facial characteristics, changing one into a fictitious creature, or overlaying'silly' objects (e.g., Taco hat) (Javornik et al. 2022). Along with the rapid expansion of smart devices, the popularity of these filters is expanding each day. In coffee shops these days, it's not uncommon to see a bunch of "selfie enthusiasts" putting their phones up to their faces and experimenting with various filters. According to Bhatt (2020), 600 million people use AR filters on Instagram and Facebook each month, and 76% of Snapchat users use them every day, making them one of the most popular features on those platforms.

2. AR Filters in the example of a social media platform - Instagram:

Instagram, one of the most popular social media sites, has adopted AR filters as a core function. Users can browse a wide collection of filters made by Instagram and its broad community of creators. These filters are available through the Stories or Reels functionalities, allowing users to apply filters to their photographs or videos in real time. Instagram filters have transformed how people show themselves online, encouraging creativity and personal expression. Some of them, such as Plastica or Fix Me, appear to simulate facial surgery, which may have a passive effect on their users' well-being (Scott 2019).

3. Effects

The use of AR filters on Instagram poses important issues with digital citizenship. Digital citizenship refers to the responsible and ethical use of technology, which includes online interactions and content creation. While AR filters provide interesting possibilities, their broad use may blur the distinction between reality and digital embellishment. This can raise concerns about unattainable beauty standards, body image difficulties, and the continuation of negative stereotypes. Individuals must critically engage with filters and be aware of the impact they may have on their own self-image and the views of others (Hinduja & Patchin, 2020).

4. Future & Solutions

As AR technology progresses, the future of Instagram filters offers enormous promise. We should expect more advanced filters that offer increased engagement, immersive experiences, and possibly integration with other technologies like as virtual reality. However, with this improvement comes the necessity for responsible use and an understanding of potential ethical consequences. It is critical that platforms like Instagram prioritize user education and give clear guidelines for filter design, usage, and moderation. AR filters are no longer only a "plaything," but are increasingly acknowledged as a practical tool for everyday use. 76% of people expect to use AR filters as a tool, and 94% of consumers who interact with products that have AR experiences have a higher conversion rate (Sofija 2022).

To promote responsible digital citizenship and software literacy in the field of AR filters, numerous solutions might be implemented:

Education and Awareness: Platforms such as Instagram should prioritize educating users about the possible consequences of filters while also promoting media literacy skills. This includes comprehending how filters can influence judgments of beauty, the significance of body positivity, and critical thinking about how filters affect self-image.

Varied and Ethical Filter Creation: It is critical to encourage a varied variety of producers to create filters that promote inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and empowerment. Platforms can create guidelines and verification methods to ensure filters follow ethical standards and do not reinforce harmful stereotypes.

User Control and Consent: Improving user control over filter use is critical. Instagram can provide choices for turning filters on and off, allowing users to choose when and how they use them. Furthermore, platforms should prioritize acquiring users' agreement before applying filters to their content.

Transparent Algorithmic Influence: Platforms should be open about their algorithms for curating and recommending filters. This can assist users understand how filters are chosen, reducing the likelihood of prejudice or discrimination.

As AR filters continue to influence the digital world, it is critical that users use them appropriately as part of their digital citizenship journey. Instagram filters provide creative opportunities for self-expression, but they also have the ability to negatively impact self-image and societal perceptions. By fostering education, diversity, user control, and transparency, we can create a more inclusive and responsible digital environment in which people may use AR filters while remaining safe online.

References:

Javornik, A, Marder, B, Barhorst, JB, McLean, G, Rogers, Y, Marshall, P & Warlop, L 2022, ‘“What lies behind the filter?” Uncovering the motivations for using augmented reality (AR) face filters on social media and their effect on well-being’, Computers in Human Behavior, vol. 128, no. 107126, p. 107126, viewed 2 March 2024, https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/S0747563221004490?token=C2FCB5A5DF589848E787953D5759B7990EBCED72E6360E2BDA180ED67E63FA10D50C03C6E45357DEA822281F2161C099&originRegion=eu-west-1&originCreation=20220107091932.

Scott, D 2019, Instagram has banned a load of its most popular filters, Cosmopolitan, viewed 2 March 2024, https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/body/health/a29572762/instagram-ban-filters-plastic-surgery/.

Hinduja, S & W.Patchin, J 2019, Social Media, Cyberbullying, and Online Safety Glossary, Cyberbullying Research Center, viewed 24 March 2024, .

Sofija, E 2022, What are augmented reality (AR) filters and how are they transforming the way consumers engage with brands?, www.linkedin.com, viewed 3 March 2024, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/what-augmented-reality-ar-filters-how-transforming-way-emma-sofija/.

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WEEK 7: BODY MODIFICATION ON SOCIAL MEDIA

In recent years, social media platforms have emerged as a strong tool for self-expression, allowing people to demonstrate their distinct personalities and lives. Body alteration is a popular method of self-expression. Individuals are redefining beauty standards and challenging society conventions using means ranging from tattoos and piercings to more extreme changes such as scarification and body suspension. However, the rise of body alteration on social media has created additional issues, such as visible labor, aesthetic labor, the influence of aesthetic templates, and the resulting body image crises. In this piece, we will look at these challenges, supported by academic references, and provide potential solutions for navigating this changing world.

Visibility Labor: The concept of visible labor relates to the effort people put in to make their presence recognized on social media sites. Visibility work for body modification practitioners entails actively creating their online persona, sharing their journey, and interacting with their audience. This labor can be both emotionally and physically taxing, necessitating time, effort, and vulnerability. Van Dijck (2013) argues that visible labor is crucial for those seeking acknowledgment and validation in an increasingly crowded online arena.

Aesthetic Labor: Aesthetic labor, as defined by Warhurst and Nickson (2008), refers to the effort individuals expend in preserving and presenting a chosen aesthetic. In the field of body modification, this work includes not only physical changes, but also the continuing maintenance and documentation of these changes on social media. Individuals devote time and resources to creating and maintaining their ideal aesthetic, frequently motivated by a desire for social approval and appreciation.

Aesthetic Templates: The spread of body alteration on social media has led to the establishment of aesthetic templates. These templates serve as a set of preset norms or trends that people feel obligated to follow in order to obtain awareness and recognition. The urge to follow these templates may result in a homogeneity of body modification procedures, potentially eroding the individuality and distinctiveness that sparked the movement.

Body Image Crisis: While body modification on social media might be liberating for some, it can also exacerbate a body image issue. Constant exposure to a curated version of other people's transformed bodies might cause self-comparison and feelings of inadequacy in those who do not adhere to the prevalent aesthetic standards. This crises can lead to increased body dysmorphia, low self-esteem, and poor mental health outcomes (Perloff, 2014).

Solution: To address the issues raised by body modification on social media, it is critical to create an inclusive and supportive community that values diversity and challenges aesthetic norms. Content creators can help by demonstrating a variety of body changes, emphasizing the beauty of individuality, and encouraging body positivity. Platforms can also integrate anti-bullying mechanisms and give mental health assistance.

To sum up, body modification on social media has become an effective tool for self-expression and identity development. However, it is critical to recognize the complexities and limitations related with this occurrence. Visibility and aesthetic labor are inextricably linked in the search of recognition and acceptance, but aesthetic templates and the resulting body image problem can perpetuate damaging beauty standards. By fostering diversity, inclusivity, and body positivity, we can foster a more supportive workplace that recognizes each individual's unique beauty.

References:

van Dijck, J 2013, The Culture of Connectivity: A Critical History of Social Media, Online, Oxford University Press, New York, viewed 24 March 2024, https://doi.org/10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199970773.001.0001

Warhurst, C & Nickson, D 2009, Who’s Got the Look?’ Emotional, Aesthetic and Sexualized Labour in Interactive Services, 3rd edn, vol. 17 (2), European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, pp. 185–203.

M.Perloff, R 2014, Social Media Effects on Young Women’s Body Image Concerns: Theoretical Perspectives and an Agenda for Research, vol. 71, Sex Role, pp. 363–377, viewed 24 March 2024, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11199-014-0384-6

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WEEK 6: SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCERS AND THE SLOW FASHION MOVEMENT

1. Fast fashion:

Fast fashion has grown in popularity in recent years, coinciding with rapid development and the demand for inexpensive and convenient clothing in the "fast-food" manner. Dr. Preeti Arya, an assistant professor of textile development and marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, defines fast fashion as a business model that focuses on producing clothing in large quantities and as quickly as feasible in reaction to current trends (Nicioli 2023). The term first appeared in a New York Times article in 1989, when Zara's first store debuted in the United States. According to the Times, the clothing were meant to be designed from concept to final product in 15 days, at moderate pricing and with client ease.

Ever since the inception of "fast-fashion" trend, brands such as Zara, H&M or Mango has been trying to replicate styles which inspired from prestigious runways of New York, Milan, Paris, etc. The great side is that they can do a mass production of those so-called "trendy designs in real-time" as brands can deliver vast amounts of apparel and ensure that customers never run out of inventory (Stanton 2023). The goal is very clear: Getting these designs into customers' hands while the clothing is still popular and affordable. Buyers can experience dressed in the same manner as their favorite celebrities, as if they were on the real fashion runway, for a much fairer price.

2. Impacts of “instant noodle” fashion styles on the environment:

However, everything has their own down side and fast-fashion is not an inception. Given the fact that brands have been producing clothes in mass quantities, the consequences of it has always been a hot topic, if not the hottest to debate. The fashion industry has faced criticism for failing to address social and environmental concerns, putting non-financial expenses on the global agenda (Niinimäki et al. 2020) and an analysis from Business Insider has proven it right. Fashion production accounts for 10% of total world carbon emissions, which is comparable to the European Union. It depletes water resources and pollutes rivers and streams, and 85% of all textiles end up in landfills each year (Maiti 2024). Washing clothes everyday might seem to be a harmless daily to-do in every individual's bucket list but in reality, it throws 500,000 tons of microfibres into the ocean each year, which is comparable to 50 billion plastic bottles. Fiber production is also regarded as one of the major contributions to the industry's worldwide pollution footprint. The survey also discovered that fiber production has the greatest impact on freshwater withdrawal (water diverted or removed from a surface water or groundwater source) and ecosystem quality due to cotton agriculture. The UN predicts that by 2030, emissions from textile production would have increased by 60%.

3. "Slow fashion - slow food - slow digestion"

On the other brighter side, Kate Fletcher (2007) developed the slow fashion movement after being inspired by the "slow food" movement, which promotes responsibility in food production and consumption. Slow fashion companies prioritize craftsmanship, environmental stewardship, and high-quality items (Brewer 2019). Slow fashion is a fashion philosophy that values sustainability, ethical principles, and quality before quantity. It focuses on quality above quantity, ethical manufacturing, sustainable resources, local production, and transparency.

4. Effects of slow fashion on the environment:

Subsequently, slow fashion emphasizes environmentally friendly processes and ethical working conditions. In contrast to fast fashion, it values quality and longevity while advocating for both the environment and people. Slow fashion promotes environmentally friendly materials, decreases waste, lowers carbon emissions, and encourages ethical manufacturing practices. It also ensures quality manufacturing, which extends the life of the garment or material. A growing number of farms and organizations support the slow-fashion movement. One such example is the Better Cotton Initiative, which establishes principles and practices for sustainable production, while several other organizations provide resources and information to modern farmers. Slow fashion seeks to foster a more sustainable and ethical fashion sector that prioritizes workmanship, durability, and social responsibility by encouraging thoughtful consumption and responsible production processes.

References:

Nicioli, AM, Taylor 2023, What is fast fashion, and why is it so controversial?, CNN, viewed 24 February 2024, https://edition.cnn.com/style/what-is-fast-fashion-sustainable-fashion/index.html.

Stanton, A 2023, What Is Fast Fashion, Anyway?, The Good Trade, viewed 24 February 2024, https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/what-is-fast-fashion/.

Niinimäki, K, Peters, G, Dahlbo, H, Perry, P, Rissanen, T & Gwilt, A 2020, ‘The environmental price of fast fashion’, Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, vol. 1, no. 4, pp. 189–200.

Maiti, R 2024, Fast Fashion and Its Environmental Impact, Earth.org, Earth.org, viewed 24 February 2024, https://earth.org/fast-fashions-detrimental-effect-on-the-environment/.

Fletcher, K 2007, Slow Fashion, The Ecologist, viewed 24 February 2024, https://theecologist.org/2007/jun/01/slow-fashion.

Brewer, MK 2019, ‘Slow Fashion in a Fast Fashion World: Promoting Sustainability and Responsibility’, Laws, vol. 8, no. 4, p. 24.

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Week 5: Platformization: the platforming of connectivity and diversity

Platformisation has arisen as a transformational force in the digital age, reshaping how we connect, interact, and communicate. This essay delves into the topic of platformisation, namely its impact on connectedness and diversity within digital communities. We will investigate the dynamics, benefits, and challenges of platformisation, revealing its potential to change the digital environment.

Platformisation is the process by which digital platforms like social media networks evolve into complex ecosystems that enable connectivity, content creation, and community formation. These platforms provide the infrastructure and tools for users to engage, communicate, and contribute, creating a sense of belonging and allowing various perspectives to be heard.

Additionally, it has transformed connection, removing regional restrictions and enabling global interactions. Platforms such as Tumblr act as virtual meeting places, allowing people from all origins and cultures to communicate, share ideas, and build communities based on common interests. Users can discover information and join in conversations using tools such as tagging, following, and reblogging, which encourage a sense of belonging and idea cross-pollination.

Subsequently, platformisation has played an important role in amplifying various views and promoting inclusivity in digital communities. Platforms empower marginalized groups by allowing them to express their unique identities and viewpoints, as well as explore diverse cultures, subcultures, and activism. Academic research has shown that digital platforms promote diversity while also challenging established power systems (Noble, 2018).

The platformisation of connection and diversity provides several benefits. It improves access to knowledge, fosters collaboration, and empowers marginalised communities. However, complications emerge as platforms deal with concerns such as content control, algorithmic biases, and the possibility of echo chambers. It is critical that platforms address these issues and create inclusive places that encourage varied views and meaningful connections.

To wrap it all up, platformisation has transformed the digital landscape by improving connectivity and amplifying various viewpoints within digital communities. Platformisation has revolutionized how we engage, express, and collaborate by connecting individuals, fostering inclusivity, and empowering disadvantaged groups. While obstacles remain, platformisation's ability for connectedness and diversity holds enormous promise for the creation of lively and inclusive digital communities.

References:

Noble, S. U. (2018). Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Racism (Illustrated) [Review of Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Racism]. NYU Press.

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Week 4: Digital Community and Fandom: Reality TV Case Study.

Reality TV show has been a great category in terms of connecting people online. However, in recent years, with the rise of platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, Paramount+, Hulu, etc., there are some major concerns on the longevity of the aforementioned reality TV in the future. This does not mean that shows are not contributing anything at all for digital communities and my post will examine the role of reality TV shows in today's modern era. Fandoms have arisen as passionate and energetic groups that gather to celebrate common interests in the world of digital communities. This essay delves into the relationship between digital communities and fandoms, using the reality TV genre as an example. We'll look at the dynamics, effect, and significance of reality TV fandoms in the digital community space.

Fandoms are devoted groups of fans who share a strong passion for a specific television show, film, book series, or celebrity. Fandoms thrive in the internet realm, generating their own subcultures and providing opportunities for contact, discussion, and creative expression. Fandoms have an important role in defining how consumers interact with media, changing passive viewing into active engagement (Hills 2002).

Reality television has become a breeding ground for fandoms, enthralling viewers with its unscripted tales, engaging individuals, and dramatic twists. Shows such as "Survivor," "The Bachelor," and "RuPaul's Drag Race" have devoted fan communities who participate in spirited conversations, fan fiction, fan art, and other kinds of creative expression.

The digital community landscape creates an excellent environment for reality TV fandoms to flourish. Tumblr and other social media sites serve as virtual centers for fans to interact, share information, and engage in conversations. Hashtags, reblogging, and tagging help people find fan-created content, which fosters a feeling of community and enhances the fandom experience.

Reality TV fandoms in the digital community have a significant impact on the overall media environment. They create hype, affect show narratives, and alter audience impressions through conversations and critiques. These fandoms also help to create a participatory culture, in which fans actively interact with and contribute to the material they enjoy (Jenkins, 2006).

To wrap it all up, reality TV fandoms demonstrate the power and influence of digital communities in the world of entertainment. These fandoms exemplify how the digital community landscape can alter and improve the media experience by their passionate engagement, creative expressions, and active involvement. Reality TV fandoms on platforms such as Tumblr represent the active and dynamic character of internet communities, whether through impassioned discussions or fan-generated content.

References: Hills, M. (2002). Fan Cultures (1st ed.) [Review of Fan Cultures]. Routledge. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9780203361337/fan-cultures-matthew-hills Jenkins, H. (2006). Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide [Review of Convergence Culture: Where Old and New Media Collide]. NYU Press.

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Week 3: How does Tumblr function as a digital community?

Tumblr is not quite familiar when it comes to a popular social media platform to use with an average of over 200 million visits worldwide in the last six months of 2023 (Statista, 2024). However, it is still regarded as a great one to connect and form a community. This premiere post of mine will examine the whole progress of Tumblr ever since it's inception. 1. What is Tumblr? Tumblr, a popular microblogging network, has captivated millions with its distinct blend of creativity, self-expression, and community. In this essay, we'll look at the substance of Tumblr, including its features, purpose, and impact on digital culture. It was launched in 2007 as a social media platform that mixes blogging and social networking. It enables users to create and modify their own blogs, sharing a wide range of information including text articles, photographs, videos, and more. Tumblr, which focuses on short-form content and multimedia, invites people to express themselves visually appealingly. Tumblr flourishes as a creative hub, allowing people to share their unique perspectives and artistic achievements. Its user-friendly layout and adjustable themes allow users to curate their blogs, resulting in a more personalized digital presence. Academic research has emphasized Tumblr's importance in promoting self-expression and the exploration of various identities and subcultures. At its core, Tumblr is a flourishing online community. Users can use tags to find content that is relevant to their interests and interact with others who share those interests. The platform's reblogging function promotes community involvement by allowing users to share and highlight information from others while also providing their own commentary. This encourages the establishment of niche communities focused on fandoms, activism, and other interests. 2. Definition of a Digital Community: Digital communities have become a vital part of our online life, allowing people to connect, discuss, and engage with others who share their interests. In this essay, we will look at the essence of a digital community, including its definition and significance in our increasingly linked society. They are virtual environments where people can join and engage in activities related to their common interests or aspirations. These communities exist on a variety of online channels, including social media, forums, and specialist websites. They allow people to connect across geographical borders, instilling a sense of belonging and support. These communities shape our online experiences and identities. They promote teamwork, knowledge sharing, and emotional support. Research has highlighted the importance of digital communities in fields such as education, health, and activism, where individuals can collaborate to address common concerns and influence good change (Preece, 2001, pp. 347–356).

3. Why Tumblr is a Digital Community? Tumblr, the popular microblogging network, is thriving as a digital community. In this piece, we'll look at the features that distinguish Tumblr as an engaging digital community that promotes connectivity, self-expression, and creative inquiry. Tumblr's essence is in its capacity to bring people together and foster a feeling of community. Users can interact with each other's material by following, reblogging, and commenting, creating conversations and forming connections. Tumblr's participatory aspect distinguishes it from other blogging platforms, transforming it into a vibrant digital community. Tumblr provides a rich tapestry of self-expression, allowing users to share their ideas, emotions, and creative works in a variety of ways. Users can curate their blogs to reflect their distinct identities and interests, including visual art and written writing. This self-expression creates a thriving ecosystem of varied voices and ideas. Academic study has identified Tumblr as a digital community that empowers people and fosters a sense of belonging. According to research, Tumblr has an important role in promoting self-expression, assisting minority communities, and offering a forum for activism and social justice discourse. Finally, Tumblr is frequently linked to eccentric youth societies. It also provides a particularly comfortable environment for trans and gender varied self-representation when contrasted to mainstream platforms such as Facebook and Instagram… Although Facebook is a source of support for transgender people, its design promotes a single user identity, which can be unpleasant for many trans or gender nonconforming individuals. Facebook's "default publicness" has also been recognized as harmful to many LGBT youths of color (Byron et.al, 2019). References: Statista. (2024). Worldwide Visits to Tumblr.com from July to December 2023 [Review of Worldwide Visits to Tumblr.com from July to December 2023]. Preece, J. (2001). Sociability and usability in online communities: determining and measuring success (pp. 347–356) [Review of Sociability and usability in online communities: determining and measuring success]. Byron, P., Brady Robards, B. Hanckel, S. Vivienne, B. Churchill (2019). ' “Hey, I’m Having These Experiences”: Tumblr Use and Young People’s Queer (Dis)connections', International Journal of Communication 13 (2019), pp. 2239-2259.