juliadotsia

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Week 12: Crowdsourcing in times of crisis

Hey everyone!  Have you ever wondered how people come together online to help out during a crisis? Let’s dive into the amazing world of crowdsourcing in times of crisis! Have you ever noticed how people seem to magically come together online when disaster strikes? From natural disasters to global pandemics, crowdsourcing has become a game-changer in times of crisis.  Let’s explore how this works and why it’s so powerful!

First things first, let’s talk about what is crowdsourcing. Crowdsourcing involves collecting work, information, or opinions from a large group of people who provide their input via the Internet, social media, and smartphone apps In crowdsourcing, some people work as paid freelancers, while others do small tasks voluntarily. For instance, traffic apps like Waze ask drivers to report accidents and other road incidents to keep the information updated in real-time for users (Hargrave 2022). Thanks to the internet, crowdsourcing can happen super quickly and reach people all over the world. During crises, this can mean everything from mapping disaster zones to translating emergency information or even just sharing crucial updates on social media.

One of the coolest examples of crowdsourcing in action is during natural disasters. On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Haiti, resulting in over 230,000 deaths and widespread destruction in densely populated areas. The international community quickly responded with extensive search and rescue operations and emergency aid (Heinzelman & Waters 2003). As international organizations sought information about damage, needs, and conditions in Haiti, Ushahidi a crisis-mapping platform created after Kenya's 2007-08 postelection violence was activated. Using mobile phone communications and social media, it gathered data from Twitter, Facebook, blogs, and text messages to create reports on a web-based, interactive map accessible to anyone online (Heinzelman & Waters 2003). Meier (2012) highlights how these digital volunteers played a crucial role in the relief efforts, showing the incredible power of crowdsourcing.

 Here in Malaysia, we’ve seen the power of crowdsourcing too. During the 2014 Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 tragedy, people worldwide participated in the search efforts by analyzing satellite images through the Tomnod platform. In the devastating floods that hit Malaysia in 2014 and 2021, social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook were crucial in coordinating rescue efforts, gathering donations, and providing real-time updates to affected communities, which has enlisted about 3 million volunteers from around the world to pore over satellite imagery (Merelli 2014). It was inspiring to see how Malaysians came together to support each other in times of need.

So, why is crowdsourcing so effective during crises? It’s all about speed and scale. Traditional methods of gathering information and resources can be slow, but crowdsourcing taps into the power of the internet to get things done fast. Plus, it leverages the collective knowledge and skills of a diverse group of people, making it a powerful tool for problem-solving. Another reason crowdsourcing works so well is the sense of community it fosters. In times of crisis, people want to help, and crowdsourcing gives them a way to do so. It turns individuals into active participants in the relief efforts, creating a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. So next time you hear about a disaster or crisis, remember that you can be part of the solution. Whether it’s updating a map, sharing important info, or donating to those in need, every little bit helps. Let’s harness the power of crowdsourcing and show the world what we can do when we work together!

Reference

Hargrave, M., 2022. Crowdsourcing: Definition, How It Works, Types, and Examples.Investopedia. viewed 27 May 2024. Available at: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/crowdsourcing.asp

Heinzelman, J & Waters, C 2003, About the Report Crowdsourcing Crisis Information in Disaster- Affected Haiti Summary viewed 27 May 2024. Available at: https://preparecenter.org/sites/default/files/crowdsourcing_crisis_information_in_disaster-affected_haiti.pdf

Merelli, A., 2014, Using crowdsourcing to search for flight MH 370 has both pluses and minuses. Quartz. xiewed 27 May 2024., Available at: https://qz.com/188270/using-crowdsourcing-to-search-for-flight-mh-370-has-both-pluses-and-minuses

Meier, P. (2012). Crisis Mapping in Action: How Open Source Software and Global Volunteer Networks Are Changing the World, One Map at a Time. Journal of Map & Geography Libraries, 8(2), 89-100.

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Week 11: Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance

Hello guys welcome back! Have you ever thought about how social media influences the way we act online and how it deals with drama, especially harassment and cyberbullying? Let’s explore digital citizenship, social media governance, and how they relate to online harassment!

First of all, let’s talk about what is digital citizenship. Digital citizenship involves using technology responsibly, safely, and respectfully. It includes protecting private information online, reducing risks from cyber threats, and using information and media in a respectful, informed, and legal manner (Digital Citizenship: What it is & What it Includes | Learning.com 2023). While we live and interact online much like we do offline, we aren't always mindful of our online actions. Sometimes we act without considering the impact on our reputation, safety, and growth as digital citizens. Meanwhile, everything we do online shapes our digital world and identity. Social Media Governance refers to the guidelines, methods, and steps that social media platforms use to control and oversee how users behave and what they post on their platforms (Murthy 2024). The purpose of social media governance is to keep the internet a safe, respectful, and legal place to be while also protecting user rights and free speech.

Do you know that if you don’t use social media wisely will lead to harassment and cyberbullying? These are serious issues that affect many people online. Harassment involves repeated, unwanted behavior that makes someone feel intimidated or threatened. Cyberbullying is a type of harassment that happens specifically online. It can include spreading rumors, sending threatening messages, or publicly humiliating someone. Both can have devastating effects on victims, leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Based on my research, over 3000 cases is reported in Malaysia in 2023 (Rashidi 2024). MCMC also found that Facebook was the most common platform for cyberbullying, with 1,401 reports. WhatsApp came in second with 667, followed by Instagram with 388, TikTok with 258 and X with 159 and both adults and teenagers also reported being harassed within the past 12 months, up from 23% in 2022 to 33% in 2023 for adults, and 36% to 51% for teenagers (Wahab 2023). Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have their own rules to keep things in check. These rules are supposed to prevent stuff like cyberbullying, fake news, and hate speech. But let's be real—sometimes these platforms don't always get it right. They have to balance free speech with the need to protect users from harmful content.

One big part of social media governance is content moderation. This is where platforms use a mix of algorithms and human moderators to check what’s being posted (Content Moderation Justice and Fairness on Social Media: Comparisons Across Different Contexts and Platforms 2024). While AI can catch some bad stuff, it’s not perfect. Human moderators have the tough job of deciding what stays and what goes, which can be super stressful. One of the examples where conflicts often pop up is when misinformation and fake news, lead to misunderstandings and disputes. Users may share unverified information, which can cause disagreements over what is true (The Role of Social Media in Modern Conflicts n.d.)

Let’s talk about the legal framework for cyberbullying in Malaysia. In Malaysia, there is no existing legal provision specifically to tackle cyberbullying cases in Malaysia. Besides, we can also refer to Section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998 which is Improper use of network services, which includes making any comment that is considered offensive, abusive, and intended to harass another person, if anyone is convicted, the offender could be fined of not more than RM50,000 or imprisonment for up to 1 year, or both (Iskandar 2023). Malaysia’s government should take cyberbullying seriously and come out with a legal law for cyberbullying.

So, what can we do as digital citizens? We can start by being mindful of what we post and how we interact with others. Think twice before sharing something controversial or unverified. Be respectful in your comments and conversations. And if you see something harmful, report it. Together, we can make social media a better place.

Reference

Content Moderation Justice and Fairness on Social Media: Comparisons Across Different Contexts and Platforms, 2024. arXiv.org e-Print archive. viewed 27 May 2024. Available at: https://arxiv.org/html/2403.06034v1#:~:text=To%20fight%20harmful%20content%20and,screening%20of%20user-generated%20content%20

Digital Citizenship: What it is & What it Includes | Learning.com, 2023. Learning. viewed 27 May 2024. Available from: https://www.learning.com/blog/what-is-digital-citizenship/

Iskandar, I. M., 2023, Activists want ambiguity in Communications and Multimedia Act cleared up, NST Online, viewed 27 May 2024, Available at: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/03/885208/activists-want-ambiguity-communications-and-multimedia-act-cleared

Murthy, S., 2024. Social Media Governance: 9 Essential Components. Sprinklr: Unified AI-Powered Customer Experience Management Platform. viewed 27 May 2024, Available at: https://www.sprinklr.com/blog/social-media-governance/#:~:text=A%20social%20media%20governance%20plan%20is%20a%20structured%20framework%20for,risks%20associated%20with%20social%20media

Rashidi, Q.N.M., 2024, Over 3,000 cyberbullying complaints recorded in 2023, thesun.my, viewed 27 May 2024, Available at : https://thesun.my/local_news/over-3000-cyberbullying-complaints-recorded-in-2023-AK12097214

The Role of Social Media in Modern Conflicts n.d., PCRF, viewed 27 May 2024, https://www.pcrf.net/information-you-should-know/item-1707234928.html

Wahab, F., 2023. ‘Cyberbullying laws need more bite’. The Star. viewed 27 May 2024. Available at : https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2023/07/01/cyberbullying-laws-need-more-bite

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Week 10: Gaming Communities, Social Gaming and Live Streaming

Hey gamers! Ever wondered why gaming feels like more than just a hobby? Let’s dive into the magic of gaming communities, social gaming, and live streaming! Gaming isn’t just about beating the final boss or collecting all the loot; it’s about connecting with people from all over the world who share your passion. Whether you’re teaming up for an epic raid or just hanging out in a virtual lobby, gaming communities are where real friendships are born. Think about the last time you logged into your favorite game. Did you immediately jump into a solo mission, or did you check if your friends were online? If you’re like me, you probably went for the latter. That’s because gaming is way more fun when you’re sharing the experience. Social gaming brings people together, making every victory sweeter and every defeat a bit easier to swallow. And then there's live streaming. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube Gaming have turned gaming into a spectator sport, where anyone can be a star. Twitch is a popular live streaming platform that attracts a large number of users who enjoy watching live streams or pre-recorded video gameplay. There are also other channels that users can watch, such as music, sports, esports, and food. YouTube Gaming is a video site for gamers that competes with Twitch. Instead of going to Twitch, gamers now go to YouTube. It has live chat and lets users watch live and on-demand video game material.

Whether you’re watching for the sick plays or the hilarious commentary, live streams offer a sense of community. It’s like hanging out with friends, even if you’re not the one holding the controller. Plus, the live chat feature lets you interact in real time, making you feel like part of the action. There are numerous game-specific chat rooms and various ways to connect with people online through consoles and other internet platforms. In addition to the thriving online communities found on platforms like Reddit, each gaming platform offers unique methods for users to connect and communicate. (Social gaming and live streaming apps guide | Internet Matters n.d). However, 41% of parents report that their children chat or communicate with other gamers on streaming services like Twitch and YouTube Gaming and 64% of parents believe that online gaming poses the same risks to their child as using social media (Social gaming and live streaming apps guide | Internet Matters n.d).

Besides, gaming can be a career. A very famous form of professional gaming is called "Esports." By 2023, it is expected to generate a staggering $1.5 billion. Due to this, there is a significant amount of opportunity for dedicated professional gamers. Professional gaming does not require any specific educational qualifications or credentials. Currently, the focus is primarily on developing skills (Is gaming a career? 2023). Many individuals choose to pursue gaming as a career by becoming streamers on popular platforms like Youtube and Twitch. Game streamers may not be professional gamers, but they attract a significant following of viewers who enjoy watching them play games. They generate income through their viewership and by collaborating with different companies and products. For instance, top eSports tournaments like The International for Dota 2 or the League of Legends World Championship offer multi-million dollar prize pools. Streamers like Ninja and Pokimane have turned their gaming prowess into lucrative careers, earning through multiple revenue streams. This shift is supported by a growing industry infrastructure, with teams, coaches, and sponsors, making gaming a serious profession.

In Malaysia, one of the standout gaming personalities is Khalish "d4v41" Rusyaidee. Known for his impressive skills and strategic gameplay, d4v41 has become a prominent figure in the Malaysian eSports scene, particularly in games like  Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO). But now he is currently in a team called Papper Rex. He , which won US$120,000 (RM534,660) for securing second place at the Valorant Masters esports event in Copenhagen, Denmark (Yeoh 2022).

Game development is another exciting career avenue. Whether you're into coding, design, or storytelling, there’s a place for you in creating the next big game. The gaming industry’s growth means more jobs and opportunities for those passionate about making games. So next time someone tells you gaming is a waste of time, just smile and know you’re part of something much bigger. Keep playing, keep connecting, and keep being awesome! Ciao.

Reference

Is gaming a career?, 2023. Zippia - Find Jobs, Salaries, Companies, Resume Help, Career Paths, and More, viewed 26 May 2024, Available at: https://www.zippia.com/answers/is-gaming-a-career/

Social gaming and live streaming apps guide | Internet Matters, n.d. Internet Matters. vewed 26 May 2024. Available at: https://www.internetmatters.org/resources/apps-guide/social-gaming-and-live-streaming-apps/

Yeoh, A., 2022. ‘Kelantan represent!’: M’sian player part of esports team that won RM530K at Valorant Masters in Copenhagen, The Star. viewed 26 May 2024. Available at: https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2022/07/25/kelantan-represent-msian-player-part-of-esports-team-that-won-rm530k-at-valorant-masters-in-copenhagen

[juliadotsia]

Week 9: Digital Citizenship and Software Literacy: Instagram Filters

Hello peeps, in today’s topic let’s talk about filters. They’re fun, right? A swipe here, a tap there, and voila! We’re transformed into enhanced versions of ourselves. But have you ever wondered how these filters are influencing our perception of reality and self-image?

Instagram filters do more than just add a cool hue or a bit of sparkle to our photos. They play a significant role in our digital citizenship and software literacy. Digital citizenship is all about how we navigate the online world responsibly and ethically, while software literacy refers to our understanding and effective use of digital tools. When it comes to Instagram filters, there’s a lot more at play than just fun and games. Over 400 million people reportedly use Snapchat filters daily, while Meta has stated that over 600 million people have used filters on Facebook and Instagram (Moreschi and Aaron 2024). Firstly, let’s think about how filters impact self-esteem and body image. Many filters use alter facial features to align with certain beauty standards. A 2021 study by the City, University of London found that the most common reasons for using filters included making eyes bigger, noses smaller, lips plumper and reshaping the jaw (Moreschi and Aaron 2024). Other research finds that young people with low self-esteem and poor body image like to use filters because can further reinforce the negative belief that their appearance isn’t good enough Research from the Dove Self-Esteem Project in 2020 found that by age 13, 80 percent of girls have downloaded a filter or used an app to alter their appearance in photos (Well 2023). Moreover, filters can influence our social interactions and the way we communicate online. They can create a digital mask that makes it harder for us to present our true selves. While it's fun to play around with different looks, it’s important to remember that digital literacy involves understanding the effects these tools have on our communication and self-expression. Young women often compare how they look not just to flawless images of celebrities and friends, but also to their own edited selfies. This ongoing comparison can cause significant distress and diminish their confidence in their appearance and themselves.

Now, let’s talk about software literacy. This is about understanding and effectively using digital tools. When we use filters like the Snapchat dog filter, we’re engaging with software that manipulates our images. It’s crucial to be aware of how these tools work and their potential effects. Filters can create a digital mask, making it easy to present a version of ourselves that’s not entirely real. This can affect our self-esteem and how we communicate with others online. It’s fun to use these filters, but we should also recognize their impact on our digital presence and mental well-being. Being a good digital citizen means using filters responsibly. This involves being aware of the impact they have on our self-perception and the way we interact with others. It also means advocating for a digital environment that promotes healthy self-esteem and realistic beauty standards. By understanding the technology behind these tools, we can make more informed decisions about how and when to use them.

In conclusion, while filters can be a fun and creative way to enhance our photos, it’s important to be mindful of their broader impact. They affect our self-esteem, body image, and social interactions, and play a significant role in our digital citizenship and software literacy. By being aware of these effects, we can use filters in a way that promotes positive self-image and healthy online behavior.

Reference

Moreschi, A. and Aaron, N., 2024, Social Media Beauty Filters Impact on Mental Health, The National Desk. viewed 25 May 2024,  Available at: https://thenationaldesk.com/news/spotlight-on-america/social-media-beauty-filters-impacting-the-mental-health-of-young-women-tiktok-meta-snapchat-instagram-university-of-london-study-bold-glamour-facetune-bodytune-airbrush

Well, T., 2023,  The Hidden Danger of Online Beauty Filters. Psychology Today. viewed 25 May 2024. Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/the-clarity/202303/can-beauty-filters-damage-your-self-esteem#:~:text=Other%20research%20finds%20that%20young,and%20behaviors%20start%20quite%20early.

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Week 8: Body Modification on Visual Social Media

Will you guys feel insecure when you are often on social media? Well, I do.

In this digital world, In today's digital age, social. media websites have become strong places where people can show who they are, look for approval, and connect with others. But the way body modification is shown on visual social media websites like Instagram and TikTok has caused a lot of concern about digital citizenship and health education. People could want to use their bodies as a creative canvas for self-expression or to manage, "correct," or "perfect" some part of their appearance. Although some people want to change their body image, not everyone who modifies their body does so with this as their driving force. Unexpected negative effects from some body modification initiatives can also eventually harm one's self-esteem (Bradley University: Body Modification & Body Image 2016).

Body modification happens worldwide in many different forms and for various reasons Barker & Barker, 2002 as cited by Bradley University: Body Modification & Body Image (2016). Body modification encompasses several procedures such as piercing, tattooing, cutting, binding, implanting, or cosmetic surgery. These procedures are performed to alter the appearance and structure of the body (grumpychipp 2023). When you scroll through endless pictures of perfect bodies and flawless modifications, it's easy to start feeling like you need to change something about yourself to fit in or feel good enough. Consider the influence of celebrities like Kylie Jenner. She openly shared her journey with lip fillers, sparking a widespread desire among her followers to achieve similar enhancements. The "Kylie Jenner effect" demonstrates the profound impact one individual's choices can have on a global audience. While Kylie's confidence boost from her modifications might be genuine, not everyone finds the same satisfaction. For some, body modifications can lead to regret or heightened insecurities, exacerbated by the constant comparison facilitated by social media. Sometimes social media will lead you more insecure, If you find yourself spending too much time on social media and experiencing feelings of sadness, dissatisfaction, frustration, or loneliness, it might be a good idea to reconsider your online habits and strive for a more balanced approach. The things that happen get worse when we look up to these celebrity people. We see them as having a beautiful face or perfect bodies and are always judgmental of ourselves for not being more like them. Comparing yourself to others over and over again can make you feel insecure. When this happens, self-esteem and confidence will only keep going down. A study by the Huffington Post found that 60% of people who use social media said it had a negative effect on their self-esteem. Also, 51% of those surveyed said that social media has made them feel worse about how they look (Lakhera 2021). On the other hand, "regular people" can now build crowds and fame on social media by selecting and editing their own posts and pictures. According to Marwick and Boyd (2011), we can now take part in "micro-celebrity practices" that may satisfy our need to be seen and respected, but they may be very bad for our health and well-being, especially for women (Greenwood 2021).

It's essential to approach body modification with caution and critical thinking. Health education should emphasize the importance of making informed decisions and understanding the potential physical and psychological implications of body modification. Promoting digital citizenship involves encouraging individuals to critically evaluate the content they consume and the influences they allow to shape their self-perception. Additionally, the role of digital citizenship extends to addressing the responsibility of influencers and content creators. They should be mindful of the potential impact their posts can have on vulnerable audiences. Transparency about the risks and realities of body modification, as well as promoting body positivity and self-acceptance, can contribute to a healthier digital environment.

In conclusion, while body modification can be a form of self-expression and empowerment, the portrayal of such practices on visual social media demands a careful examination of its broader impact on digital citizenship and health education. By fostering an environment of informed choices, self-awareness, and support, we can mitigate the negative effects of these pervasive influences

Reference

Bradley University: Body Modification & Body Image,2016,  Home | Bradley University. viewed 24 May 2024. Available at: https://www.bradley.edu/sites/bodyproject/disability/modification/

grumpychipp, 2023, Body modification vs. social media: Is there any connection?. Spiderum, viewed 24 May 2024. Available at: https://spiderum.com/bai-dang/Body-modification-vs-social-media-Is-there-any-connection-HUk3sCwKK5l1

Greenwood, D 2021, The BBL Bubble: How Social Media Fuels Body Modification, Psychology viewed 24 May 2024, Available at: www.psychologytoday.com.

Lakhera, A., 2021,  How Social Media Develops Insecurities and Low Self-Esteem. Medium. vewed 24 May 2024, Available at: https://aarohilakhera.medium.com/how-social-media-develops-insecurities-and-low-self-esteem-7f71adb9c7d6

[juliadotsia]

Week 7: Social Media Influencers and the Slow Fashion Movement

Hello again today topic we are going to talk about something interesting which is social media influencers and the slow fashion movement. But first I want to know who's your go-to fashion influencer? Drop their name below !!!

What is slow fashion? Slow fashion involves being mindful and thoughtful about the steps and materials needed to produce clothing. It prioritizes timeless, well-made designs over trendy pieces that are quickly discarded (Hill 2021). Slow fashion is different from fast fashion. It's about thinking carefully about how clothes are made and what resources are used. Slow fashion encourages buying clothes that are better quality and last longer. Plus, it's a win-win for people, animals, and our planet. So, why should we care about slow fashion? Well, it's not just about looking good; it's about feeling good too. When we support brands that prioritize sustainability and fair practices, we're making a positive impact on the world.

One example of an influencer who has embraced the slow fashion movement is Emma Watson. As an actress and activist, Emma Watson has used her platform to raise awareness about sustainable fashion and promote brands that align with her values. Emma Watson is considered one of the top advocates for sustainable fashion globally. She's a popular source for helpful tips and ideas on making better fashion choices. Through her social media posts, interviews, and public appearances, Watson has advocated for ethical fashion practices and encouraged her followers to make more mindful choices when it comes to their wardrobe. And guess what? She even introduced her favorite app on Instagram called Good On You, which helps you discover ethical and sustainable fashion brands. But Emma's not the only one leading the charge. Social media influencers all over the world are using their platforms for good, spreading the word about slow fashion and inspiring their followers to make more conscious choices. Whether it's sharing styling tips, spotlighting eco-friendly brands, or raising awareness about important issues in the fashion industry, these influencers are proving that style and sustainability go hand in hand.

Now that we've covered the basics of slow fashion and explored how influencers like Emma Watson are championing the movement, let's delve a bit deeper into why slow fashion matters and how it's reshaping the fashion landscape. Do you guys know that the fashion industry is the second largest pollution in the world (Charpail 2017). Fast fashion causes significant harm to the environment through the excessive use of water and chemicals in making clothes, as well as the large amounts of textile waste ending up in landfills yearly. By following slow fashion principles, we can reduce this impact by opting for clothing made from sustainable materials, created with eco-friendly methods, and designed to last. Slow fashion also prompts us to reconsider how we view consumption and materialism. In a fast-paced world where trends change quickly, slow fashion encourages us to take our time, think carefully about what we buy, and value the things we own. It's about moving away from constant buying and adopting a more sustainable and purposeful way of dressing.

In conclusion, social media influencers play a vital role in advocating for the slow fashion movement, with figures like Emma Watson leading by example. By promoting ethical practices and sustainable choices, influencers inspire their followers to make more mindful decisions about their wardrobe. Slow fashion isn't just a trend it's a necessary shift towards a more sustainable and conscientious fashion industry. As we continue to embrace slow fashion principles, we can make a positive impact on the environment, support fair labor practices, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the clothes we wear. Together, let's keep spreading the message that style and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Reference

Charpail, M 2017, What’s wrong with the fashion industry?, Sustain Your Style. https://www.sustainyourstyle.org/en/whats-wrong-with-the-fashion-industry

Hill, M 2021, What Is Slow Fashion?, Good On You. https://goodonyou.eco/what-is-slow-fashion/

[juliadotsia]

Week 5 Digital Community and Fandom

Hey everyone! Before we dive into today's topic, let me ask you a question. What is your favorite reality TV show? Whether you're into heart-pounding competitions, juicy drama, or heart-warming moments, there's something out there for everyone. Drop your favorite show in the comments below! Who knows, you might find your reality TV soulmate right here.

So today topic we are going to discuss digital community and fandom. In today’s world, we are all connected online and that's completely changed the way we geek out over our favorite stuff like movies, books, or shows. "Fandom" is the word for a group of people who are very dedicated to a certain form of entertainment, like a TV show, movie series, book, video game, or music group (What is a Fandom? | Later Social Media Glossary n.d.). With fan clubs and social media hangouts, the internet provides us with a good opportunity to share, chat, and celebrate. But before we jump in, let's talk about why all this online fan stuff matters. You see, being a fan online isn't just about watching shows or reading books. It's about getting involved and having fun. You can write stories about your favorite characters, make cool art, or even help decide what happens next in a story! And you know what? Being part of these online fan groups can make you feel like you belong somewhere special. You can meet people who love the same things you do, share ideas, and just have a blast together. It's like having your own little corner of the internet where you can be yourself.

One of the biggest draws of fandom websites is the sense of community they foster. Users can interact with fellow fans through forums, chat rooms, and comment sections, sharing their thoughts, theories, and fan creations. It's a virtual meeting place where fans from around the world can come together to connect and bond over shared interests.

When it comes to reality TV, online fan groups are a big deal. Shows like "Too Hot To Handle", "Supermodel Me" and “Hell’s Kitchen” have huge fan bases that hang out online. They chat about episodes, make funny memes, and even vote on stuff together. Social media is where it's all happening you can share your thoughts, get the latest gossip, and just have a laugh with fellow fans. Reality TV is a television genre that includes a diverse range of shows claiming to be unscripted. Due to its wide variety, defining reality TV can be challenging (Rosenfeld 2023). Based on my research, some people said that reality show is scripted. (Metz 2007) said reality TV shows are often fake some show producers control the narrative and ask the actors to act how they want for entertainment and increase drama and spice.

In summary, digital communities and fandoms have changed how we enjoy entertainment, bringing fans together from all over the world to connect and collaborate. Whether through forums or social media, these platforms let fans share their love and creativity. Even though there are challenges, like scripted reality TV, the sense of togetherness among fans stays strong. As we navigate the digital landscape, let's continue to cherish the bonds we've formed and the joy we've shared as fans.

Reference

About Us n.d., Fandom, viewed 9 May 2024, https://about.fandom.com/about#_ga=2.170274278.738463622.1715246634-944937301.1712651394

Rosenfeld, J 2023, Reality TV | Survivor, The Real World, Description, & Facts | Britannica, www.britannica.com.

What is a Fandom? | Later Social Media Glossary n.d., later.com. https://later.com/social-media-glossary/fandom/

Metz, W 2007, How Reality TV Works, HowStuffWorks. https://entertainment.howstuffworks.com/reality-tv.htm

[juliadotsia]

Week 6: What is Digital Citizenship? Hashtag Publics, Political Engagement and Activism

Do you guys use hashtags when you post pictures on social media? Well to be honest I don't haha I don't even write a caption on my Instagram post (kinda lazy to think caption haha). So Today we going to talk about what is digital citizenship, hashtag publics, political engagement, and activism.

In representative democracies, much of what we understand of citizenship pertains to not only having legal rights within a polity but also having a ‘voice' (Couldry 2011). Digital Citizenship as a practice has been defined as “the norms of behavior with regard to technology use” (Ribble & Bailey 2004). Digital citizenship is about more than just how we use social media it's about understanding the rights, responsibilities, and opportunities that come with being part of the online world. Digital citizenship, as a practice, encompasses the norms and behaviors we adopt when using technology. It's about being mindful of how we interact with others online, respecting their privacy and autonomy, and contributing positively to digital spaces. A respectful digital citizen protects their personal information, uses good judgment, and treats others with respect Whether you’re posting on social media, sending an email, or commenting on an online discussion, practicing good digital citizenship makes our online world a more welcoming place for everyone.

Now let’s talk about hashtag publics. Hashtag publics serve as virtual communities, drawing together individuals with shared interests, experiences, or concerns For example, hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo have brought attention to important topics like racism and sexual harassment. They help people from all over the world connect and support each other. Twitter is a big platform for these hashtag discussions. For example, #BlackLivesMatter started as a way to talk about police brutality against Black people. It grew into a global movement for racial equality. People shared news and stories on Twitter, which helped spread awareness and bring about change. Similarly, #MeToo started as a way for survivors of sexual harassment to speak out. It became a worldwide movement, showing how many people are affected by these issues. Twitter was a place where survivors could find support and share their experiences. But using hashtags also has its challenges. Sometimes, bad actors misuse hashtags to spread false information or cause problems. Not all online activism leads to real-world change. So, while hashtags can be powerful tools for good, it's important to use them wisely and think about their impact.

One example of a misused hashtag is the hashtag #AllLivesMatter. While it may seem harmless on the surface, this hashtag has been widely criticized for diluting and undermining the message of the #BlackLivesMatter movement. The #BlackLivesMatter movement emerged as a response to systemic racism and police brutality against Black individuals. It aims to draw attention to the specific injustices faced by Black communities and advocate for change. However, when people use the #AllLivesMatter hashtag, it can divert attention away from the issues faced by Black people and suggest that everyone's experiences are equal, which ignores the reality of racial inequality. So, it's really important to know what a hashtag means before you use it. Using hashtags in the wrong way can cause problems and spread ideas that aren't helpful. Before jumping on a hashtag, take a moment to understand what it stands for and how it's being used. It's about being careful and responsible with the words and messages we share online.

Activism is another important aspect of digital citizenship. It involves taking action to bring about social, political, or environmental change. Whether it's participating in protests, signing petitions, or raising awareness on social media, activism empowers individuals to make a difference in the world. Hashtags play a significant role in activism, serving as rallying cries and organizing tools for movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo. Through activism, individuals can contribute to building a more just, equitable, and inclusive society both online and offline.Political engagement is also key in shaping our society. It involves participating in political processes such as voting, contacting representatives, and advocating for policy changes. Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook have become important tools for political engagement, allowing individuals to discuss political issues, share information, and mobilize support for causes and candidates.

Being a good digital citizen, understanding hashtags, and getting involved in activism are all important. By being responsible online, using hashtags wisely, and taking part in activism, we can make the internet a better place. Let's work together for positive change!

Reference

Couldry, N 2011, Why voice matters : culture and politics after neoliberalism, Sage Publ, Los Angeles.

Ribble, M. S., & Bailey., G. D 2004. Digital citizenship focus questions for implementation. Learning & Leading with Technology, 32(2), 12-15.