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Week 12 Crowdsourcing

Welcome back to Lam’s blog!

Today, I will talk about the crowdsourcing !!!

The collective strength of a group seems capable of solving all types of problems and overcoming any challenges. In theory, a group possesses limitless potential. Imagine a diverse array of individuals, including experts from various fields and regions around the globe. When they come together, they bring fresh perspectives and the ability to provide breakthrough insights into established problems (Alam, 2023).

This concept has given rise to crowdsourcing—a method of outsourcing tasks traditionally performed by employees to a large, undefined group of volunteers. Crowdsourcing leverages contributions from participants on a digital platform to create products or complete tasks. Just like the significant case in 2014, when Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappeared. In 2014, the disappearance of MH370 led to one of the largest crowdsourcing projects in history (Ambani, 2014). Digital volunteers from around the world scoured satellite imagery to identify possible debris from the aircraft. Platforms like Tomnod allowed thousands of people to participate in the search, significantly expanding the reach and scope of the investigation. This crowdsourced effort demonstrated the potential of collective intelligence in tackling complex, large-scale problems.

Crowdsourcing offers a powerful tool for innovation and problem-solving in today's digital age by tapping into the collective intelligence and diverse expertise of the crowd. Whether it’s searching for a missing aircraft, developing new products, or solving intricate technical challenges, the power of the crowd can drive significant progress and uncover novel solutions (Esteves, 2009).

As a business model, crowdsourcing utilizes the collective input from a vast online community to achieve goals that were previously unattainable through conventional means (Marjanovic et al., 2012). This concept provides innovation, collaboration, and problem-solving opportunities for businesses and individuals by pooling wisdom and resources from a large online community. In the crowdsourcing model, participants can be the general public, professionals, volunteers, or other interested individuals. Grifoni (2014) stated that crowdsourcing contributes to the success of projects by submitting ideas, solving problems, providing content, or other forms of participation. This model helps accelerate the innovation process, reduce costs, expand the scope of participation, and improve the quality and diversity of products or services.

Take Uber, for example. Uber is a platform that connects drivers and passengers, using the concept of the sharing economy to allow individuals to provide or obtain ride services. Another example is YouTube, which allows users to upload, share, and watch video content, providing a platform for content creators to showcase their creativity and talent.

A study explored how crowdsourcing features can improve user engagement and retention in mobile apps, which often struggle with these issues. Two crowdsourcing features were designed in the experiment: allowing users to upload content and allowing users to view content uploaded by others. The study (Zhuojun et al., 2002) found that allowing users to upload content can significantly improve engagement and retention, while allowing users to view content uploaded by others does not significantly affect user engagement but can increase user retention. This positive effect on user retention is moderated by content diversity and novelty. However, when both features exist simultaneously, a crowding-out effect can occur, reducing user engagement. These two features have a greater impact on heavy and long-term app users.

Crowdsourcing is an amazing way to harness the power of the crowd to solve problems, drive innovation, and improve engagement. Whether you're a business looking for fresh ideas or an app developer aiming to boost user retention, crowdsourcing might just be the key to unlocking new possibilities.

Share your opinion below *heart*

References 

Alam, M 2023, What is Crowdsourcing? Definition, Types, Benefits, Examples and Best Practices, IdeaScale, viewed 12 June 2024,

<https://ideascale.com/blog/what-is-crowdsourcing/.>

‌Ambani, P 2014, Malaysian Plane MH370 Crowdsourcing Search Signals Rise of the Digital Humanitarian, Crowdsourcing Week, viewed 13 June 2024,

<https://crowdsourcingweek.com/blog/malaysian-plane-crowdsourcing-search-signals-rise-of-the-digital-humanitarian/>

Esteves, J 2009, Managing risks of crowdsourcing innovation: an action research in progress, www.academia.edu, viewed 15 June 2024,

<https://www.academia.edu/114331610/Managing_risks_of_crowdsourcing_innovation_an_action_research_in_progress>

Grifoni, P 2014, CBM: An Integrated Crowd-sourcing Business Model,www.academia.edu, viewed 12 June 2024, <https://www.academia.edu/75316064/CBM_An_Integrated_Crowd_sourcing_Business_Model>

‌Marjanovic, S, Fry, C & Chataway, J 2012, ‘Crowdsourcing based business models: In search of evidence for innovation 2.0’, Science and Public Policy,  vol.39(3), pp.318–332.

Zhuojun, G , Ravi, B , Jason, C &  Alok, G 2022, ‘Measuring the Impact of Crowdsourcing Features on Mobile App User Engagement and Retention: A Randomized Field Experiment’. Management Science, vol.68(2), pp.1297–1329. 

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Week 11 Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance

Welcome to Lam’s Blog

Glad to see you again buddies! Hope you guys already know about much digital communities' knowledge through all this week’s blog. If you are my new digital com baby, welcome to check out my blog and have fun discussion with me!!!

I believe you guys know what's responsible for being a digital citizen so today I will be talking about —Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance. 

Digital Citizenship plays a big role in digital social media, digital citizens should be respective, responsible, and careful about what they say and what they post on social media, because if you don’t it will cause serious conflict such as Cyberbullying and Online harassment (US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights 2022).

When these conflicts are really happening, social media governance will fit into justice. Social Media Governance indeed plays a crucial role in maintaining a balance between user safety and freedom of expression. Social media governance involves the policies and practices being proposed to protect users while acknowledging the influence of social media on society (Dwyer 2010). It can avoid conflicts by promoting a positive social media world and quickly addressing harmful behavior. It’s like having a set of rules for a community to ensure everyone plays nice.

The malay mails (2022) stated that Malaysia was ranked second in Asia for cyberbullying among youth in 2020, according to a UNICEF report. Social media's popularity has fostered cyberbullying, affecting both youths and adults. Jessie Yong Tse Shing, a researcher, attributes this to unmet basic human needs, leading individuals to project their unhappiness online. Cyberbullies often face higher loneliness and social incompetence. Initiatives like the NETHICS campaign and Project #Cybercancelled aims to address cyberbullying through education and support. At that time, Malaysia’s social media governance improve better after NETHICS campaign and Project #Cybercancelled by heightened awareness and education young generation in Malaysia how to behave online and how to do with people cyberbullying or online harassment They're learning the right way to act on social media and how to handle cyberbullying when it happens. 

The pressing need to address cyberbullying in Malaysia has spurred action from a number of organizations, including the public and business sectors, NGOs, and educational institutions. They work together to educate the public, offer support, and increase awareness of the significance of stopping cyberbullying. Malaysia also spread information that Malaysia will manage social media governance by using Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (improper use of network facilities, like cyberbullying and online harassment) to ensure a safe digital world (thestar 2022).

Moreover,The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) received 3,199 cyberbullying complaints in 2023, with 93% addressed and closed. Most complaints involved Facebook, followed by WhatsApp and Instagram. The majority of reports were from individuals aged 30-40, with women making up 51%. Common issues included bullying, intimidation, and misuse of personal information. Experts stress the need for specific cyberbullying laws, citing severe impacts on mental health, including depression and suicidal thoughts (Nabilla 2024).

To sum up, studying social media governance and digital citizenship are essential for a digital citizen. To decrease the victim of cyberbullying and online harassment.  We should contribute the education and being responsible online to building a safer and more encouraging online community. Let’s build a healthy digital world.

Please feel free to comment about digital citizenship and social media governance in your country. Let's continue the discussion with me!

References

Dwyer, T 2010, Media Convergence, Open University Press, Maidenhead.

US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights 2022, What is digital citizenship and why is it important?, US Institute of Diplomacy and Human, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://usidhr.org/what-is-digital-citizenship-and-why-is-it-important/.>

Nabilla, Q  2024, ‘Over 3,000 cyberbullying complaints recorded in 2023’, TheSun.my, 14 February, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://thesun.my/local-news/over-3000-cyberbullying-complaints-recorded-in-2023-AK12097214>

Thestar 2022, MCMC| SKMM - address cyberbullying urgently, mcmc.gov.com.my., viewed 8 June 2024, <https://www.mcmc.gov.my/en/media/press-clippings/address-cyberbullying-urgently>

Themalaymails, 2022, Malaysia ranked second in Asia for cyberbullying among youth,themalaymails, 14 January, viewed 8 June 2024, 

<https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2022/01/14/malaysia-ranked-second-in-asia-for-cyberbullying-among-youth/2035100>

US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights 2022, What is digital citizenship and why is it important?, US Institute of Diplomacy and Human, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://usidhr.org/what-is-digital-citizenship-and-why-is-it-important/.>

Nabilla, Q  2024, ‘Over 3,000 cyberbullying complaints recorded in 2023’, TheSun.my, 14 February, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://thesun.my/local-news/over-3000-cyberbullying-complaints-recorded-in-2023-AK12097214>

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Week 10 Gaming Communities, Social Gaming, and Live Streaming

Welcome back to Lam's Blog

According to Aarseth (2001) reflected, "If we consider 1969 as the birth year of the internet, then the history of the world's first video game predates that of the internet. Why hasn't anyone thought of studying games?" From here, game studies started to develop, looking at the value of games from perspectives like sociology, aesthetics, and design. For communication scholars, including relationships in game studies is a valuable idea.

Aarseth (2001) noticed social interactions in leisure activities. For example, studies found that online activities can help form friendships and provide social support, which can include learning, help, and social recognition. In video games, research has focused on how cooperation in games improves friendships, offers online social support, and builds social capital. The interest in social capital is significant because researchers hope games can provide a social space to make up for the decline of public spaces in the real world.

According to "Top Social Media for Gamers: A Complete Guide for 2024" (Singh 2023), the gaming industry is growing year by year, with almost half of the global population being gamers, approximately 3.09 billion active video gamers worldwide. So what's the thing that keeps gamers active?

 Let's pause to think about it...

Connections... 

The connection between communities like Gaming Communities, Social Gaming, and Live Streaming has become a massive part of gamers' lives, creating connections, communication with others, online friends, and even careers.

Gaming communities are groups of people who share an interest in a particular game or type of game. They often interact online, discuss games, share tips, and sometimes organize events or competitions on platforms such as Discord, Reddit, and Steam. Gaming communities help gamers by providing a positive game environment and a sense of belonging and support. One of the great communities is The Hive, which currently has 151,918 members. This community is one of the largest Minecraft servers with a Discord community. Players always share creations, exchange things, create events, and find more friends in the community. According to Keogh (2021, pp. 209–222), local game development scenes, like the indie game scene in Melbourne, thrive because of strong community support and collaboration. This community aspect encourages creativity, innovation, and the sharing of resources, which is crucial for both developers and gamers. 

Now, let's talk about social gaming. This concept revolves around playing games with others, whether they're friends, family, or strangers. Social gaming ties relationships closer between gamers and brings people together. It breaks down barriers and makes it easy to bond over shared goals and challenges. I remember countless nights spent playing "Overcooked" with friends, laughing hard and complaining to each other until we hit the goals of the mission. "Overcooked" is a really fun and trending game online. I highly recommend you play it with your friends, family, or game partners. You'll find that ‘cooperating’ with teammates in games can be challenging but more enjoyable than frustrating. 😂

Furthermore, game streaming has seen explosive growth, with Twitch leading the charge, boasting over 7.25 million active streamers in 2023 and accounting for 76% of all streamed gaming content. In 2022, viewers watched 22.4 billion hours of live streams on Twitch. YouTube Gaming also saw significant activity with 490,000 unique channels. According to "Top 20 Game Streaming Platforms and Sites (2024)" (Capermint, T 2024), the reason why live streaming is gaining popularity is that it allows gamers to broadcast their gameplay to a global audience in real-time. A game streamer can earn between $50 to $200 monthly with an average of 5 to 10 viewers, and $100,000 to $200,000+ with 50,000+ viewers. Many pro-gamers choose to become full-time gamers, but for me, it's more fun just watching someone play a game (I won't admit I'm bad at playing video games).

Viewers can chat with the streamer, be influenced to play the same game, or interact in other ways. It's a two-way street that traditional media can't offer. Personally, I love watching "Mobile Legends: Bang Bang" live streams (Mobile legends: Bang Bang n.d.), because I want to learn more pro skills, improve myself, and cheer for my favorite team. Furthermore, live streaming has given rise to new careers. Streamers can make a living from their passion, supported by gifting, donations, subscriptions, and sponsorships. This shift has democratized entertainment, allowing anyone with a computer and an internet connection to potentially become a star.

Overall, Twitch is a game streaming platform worth trying. If you are also a gaming enthusiast, why not come to Twitch and experience its charm for yourself? For me, gaming communities, social gaming, and live streaming have allowed us to connect well with global friends. I hope you share your gaming experience and explore more in these fun digital spaces. Just take the digital world as your playground, meet new friends, play around, and stay happy!

By the way, I need game partners who can help me achieve victory. Comment down below if you'd like to play with me *heart*.

References

Capermint, T 2024, Top 20 game streaming platforms and sites (2024), Capermint viewed 7 June 2024, <https://www.capermint.com/blog/top-game-streaming-platforms/>

Keogh, B 2021, 'The Melbourne indie game scenes: value regimes in localized game development' , In Independent Video Games, Routledge.

Mobile legends: Bang Bang n.d.,Twitch, viewed 7 June 2024, <https://www.twitch.tv/directory/category/mobile-legends-bang-bang>

Singh, C 2023, Mastering Social Media for Gamers: The Ultimate Guide for Game Makers, SocialPilot, viewed 7 June 2024, <https://www.socialpilot.co/blog/social-media-for-gamers.>

Mobile legends: Bang Bang n.d.,Twitch, viewed 7 June 2024, <https://www.twitch.tv/directory/category/mobile-legends-bang-bang>

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Week 9 Digital citizenship and software literacy: Instagram filters

Hey there, digital adventurers! As usual

Welcome to Lam’s Blog! 

Today, I'm talking about the magical world of Instagram filters and how they tie into digital citizenship and software literacy.

What is a filter, and why do people love to use filters?

A filter, particularly a beauty filter, is a feature available in certain apps that can modify photos or videos by overlaying a filter onto the image, altering the appearance of the person or people shown (Opitz 2020). Filters use Augmented Reality (AR) technology, combining virtual elements with real scenes, allowing users to experience a richer reality through devices such as smartphones and tablets. For example, AR technology can add virtual elements to real scenes through the mobile phone camera, allowing users to experience more realistic visual effects, such as selfies with Instagram filters that shape your face to look prettier or even face-swapping with your friends. This is why people say filters can ‘catfish’ others, meaning that people might think you look the same as in your picture, but in reality, you do not. Filters are not only a way for people to present themselves and the real world but also a means to construct themselves and the world (Constructing an imaginary self for others to see is like retouching the self) (Barker 2020).

According to Ryan-Mosley (2021), filters not only enhance the visual appeal of images but also integrate with location-based beautification, making the portrayal of an "ideal life" appear more authentic. People tend to present their best selves using filters, reflecting their desire to be admired. Over time, they become accustomed to these enhanced images, perceiving the illusions created by filters as reasonable and justified.

While filters can be fun, it's essential to remember the line between enhancing and misrepresenting reality. Always strive for authenticity, and be mindful of the message you're sending with heavily altered images. Research by Barker (2020) found that excessive use of beauty filters on platforms like Snapchat and Instagram can lead to unrealistic beauty standards and affect self-esteem and body image. As responsible digital citizens, users should also be aware that certain filters may unintentionally cross the line into cultural appropriation or sensitivity. Pick filters that won't affect or shade other people’s culture because non-verbal communication could misrepresent other cultures, especially in a country like Malaysia with rich cultural diversity.

Furthermore, filters that frequently use facial recognition technologies raise privacy concerns. Ensure you are satisfied with the permissions you are granting and are aware of the privacy consequences. Recent findings emphasize the risks, as hackers now have the capability to steal face scans through fake apps and AI-powered deepfakes. Cybercriminals can steal and misuse sensitive information by creating phony apps that require biometric data, according to Singular Security (2024). This can result in illegal access to secure apps and substantial financial loss.

But people use filters not just to become more beautiful. In an era of competition for attention and constant comparison, “beautification” helps to compete for limited resources such as attention and brings inner spiritual satisfaction and returns of social capital. Filters are a side profile of today’s accelerated society.

For Software Literacy:

Instagram lets users create their own filters by downloading Spark AR Studio. There was a craze for special effects photography. Spark AR Studio is Facebook's (Meta) new AR Studio, allowing you to design personalized AR filters that enhance content with distinctive visual experiences by adding interactive effects to your camera display. Download Spark AR Studio, familiarize yourself with its interface, and start adding and modifying items to get started. After testing your filter, send it to Spark AR Hub for assessment (Marriott 2019). Creating AR filters becomes interesting and approachable with tools like community assistance and introductory tutorials. Gaining proficiency with this tool will improve your social media presence and equip you with valuable AR development abilities that will be in high demand across a range of sectors as AR technology advances (Spark Meta n.d.). Craig (2013) stated that this will also let people learn more and improve their software literacy.

Instagram filters can be useful and a perfect tool to boost your confidence, but they also come with responsibilities. By being a mindful digital citizen and enhancing your software literacy, you can create your ideal filters yourself!

Comment and share what filters you have created and how obsessed you are with Instagram filters!

References 

Barker, J 2020, 'Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat',Intellect， vol. 7, no. 2-3, 2050-0726, pp. 207-221.

Marriott, B 2019, Create an Instagram Filter | Beginner Spark AR Tutorial, 17 October, viewed 6 June 2024, <https://youtu.be/_B0G1jIaxMA?si=2di7ckEH_TAtIp6x>

Opitz, S. C. 2020, ‘BEAUTY FILTERS WHEN BEAUTY IS STANDARDISED’, From Print to Pixel, 5 June, viewed 6 June2024 , <https://www.fromprinttopixel.ch/en/my-networked-images/beauty-filter>.

Ryan-Mosley, T 2021, Beauty Filters Are Changing the Way Young Girls See Themselves, MIT Technology Review, 2 April, viewed 6 June 2024, <https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/04/02/1021635/beauty-filters-young-girls-augmented-reality-social-media/.>

Singular Security 2024,Hackers Can Now Steal Face Scans, singularsecurity.com, 7May, viewed 6 June 2024, <https://www.singularsecurity.com/2024/05/07/hackers-can-now-steal-face-scans/>.

Spark.meta n.d.,  Meta Spark Studio - Create Immersive AR Experiences, spark.meta.com, viewed 6 June 2024,

<https://spark.meta.com/.>

‌PewDiePie 2019, We need to STOP INSTAGRAM Filters!, 31 October, viewed 6 June 2024,

<https://youtu.be/SsHGYhWpXZM?si=-lTv5_5NkoWHelj5>

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Week 8: Body Modification on Social Media

Welcome to Lam’s Blog!

Jean Baudrillard once proposed the concept of "hyperreality," which is a state between "simulacra" and "simulation" (Baudrillard 1994). Under the dominance of technology, are the bodies shown in the media real, or are they illusions created by people? Do the public have the ability to perceive themselves immersed in this technological logic? Comment your thoughts below :) I’d love to hear your voice.

Since the beginning of the 21st century, the rise of social media has reshaped the mode of information dissemination and interpersonal communication on a global scale. In this process, social media platforms have become an important place to shape and spread body modification. Body modification specifically refers to a person's changes to their human body for aesthetic, cultural, or social reasons, such as tattoos, piercings, and even tongue splitting. These changes can be a form of self-expression, a way to connect with cultural traditions, or simply an artistic choice (Mike 2000, p.6).

Social media platforms, especially visual ones like Instagram and TikTok, have become hotspots for showcasing these transformations. Influencers and everyday users alike share their body modification journeys, often to a massive audience (Misman 2024). With the penetration of commercialization and marketization, social media platforms have begun to continuously pursue more user engagement and advertising revenue. In this process, the content of body modification on social media has gradually been commercialized and has become a means of attracting attention and increasing user stickiness.

From a business and market perspective, the rise of body modification content on social media has led to a substantial increase in commercial interests in this field, helping capital and companies to gain benefits and influence through sponsoring content, advertising, or establishing partnerships with internet celebrities. A large number of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) are active on social media. With the help of social media, they convey aesthetic orientations and concepts to the public and influence people's perception of beauty. Evaluation standards such as the "A4 waist" and "BM girl" have emerged, emphasizing the aesthetics of "white, thin, and young" women.

The idealized images presented on social media affect women's perception of their bodies, leading to more dissatisfaction with their bodies, and thus taking measures such as monitoring their bodies and dieting to help themselves achieve the ideal body they want. However, these measures may cause eating disorders in women. In this dilemma of modern social media, the only way for users to rationalize "breaking the situation" is to shape a healthy self-image through their own efforts and a positive attitude. This is why more and more users are beginning to reflect on the body modification content on social media and seek more authentic and diverse ways of self-expression.You can tell celebrities and influencers play a massive role in popularizing certain types of body modifications.

Another example, John Yuyi, born in Taiwan in 1991 and currently living in New York, is known for her social media presence. Her early work includes digital symbols applied to the human body as temporary tattoos. In an ongoing series of studies on the intersection of the physical and technological worlds, Yuyi works in multiple fields such as tattoo art, photography, performance, and character creation. She uses the body as a canvas and screen to explore people's addiction to social media and the mark it leaves on our lives (The Fashionography 2021). She tattooed the brand's logo on her skin and then posted her self-portrait on Instagram as an advertisement. In this way, she showed how "the body becomes a carrier of media attention on social networks." At the same time, she demonstrated how our bodies are occupied by these platforms. They affect how we show and perceive ourselves—and determine the value we give ourselves. Her works have been favored by and collaborated with brands such as Gucci, The New York Times, and Carven. Known as the "Willy Wonka of the art world," she is now one of the most creative artists on Instagram (Dew Magazine 2018).

I’ve always been fascinated by body modification and its ability to tell a story about who we are. Social media has opened up a whole new world of possibilities and connections, making it easier to explore and embrace these changes. Remember to do thorough research, consult professionals, and most importantly, make choices that feel right for you. Body modification is a journey, and social media is just one of the many tools you can use to navigate it.

Thanks for reading! If you have any questions or want to share your own experiences, drop a comment below or reach out on social media. Let’s keep the conversation going!

References

Baudrillard, J 1994, Simulacra and Simulation, University of Michigan Press, Ann Arbor.

Dewmagazine 2018, ‘John Yuyi and Her World - DEW Magazine’, DEW Magazine, 31 May 2024,

<https://www.dewmagazine.com/john-yuyi-world>

The Fahsionography 2021, ‘John Yuyi. The Passionate Bravery of Progressive Visual Artist.’, The Fashionography, viewed 31 May 2024,

<https://thefashionography.com/the-visionary/john-yuyi-interview/.>

Mike, F 2000, Body Modification, SAGE Publications, London.

Misman, N 2024, ‘MDA 20009 Digital Communities, Week 8: Body Modification on Social Media ’, MDA20009 Digital Communities, Learning materials via Canvas, Swinburne University of Technology, 18 May, viewed 31 May 2024.

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WEEK 7:  Social Media Influencers and The Slow Fashion

Welcome To Lam’s Blog 

I Hate shopping but love thrifting online through social platform (cause I’m just a young broke uni student smift smift*) My journey into slow fashion started from two main influences. First, thanks to my dad, who enjoys reading articles from The Ecologist. About three years ago, when I was still a young teen splurging on shopping, he shared an article that changed my mindset. It was by Kate Fletcher, introducing the concept of "slow fashion". She compared the slow fashion movement, which was founded by Carlo Petrini in Italy in 1986. The slow fashion movement emphasizes the importance of sustainability, ethical production, and a shift from quantity to quality in the fashion industry. (Kate 2017)​. This realization hit me like the refreshing ‘crack’ sound of opening an aluminum, Coke. Around the same time, one of my favorite YouTubers, Erica Ha, influenced me with her thrifting vlogs. Watching her inspired me to join the ‘thrift gang’, and now I rarely buy new brand clothes, opting instead for second-hand finds from online apps and thrift shops. Influencers like Erica Ha have the power to shape opinions and trends through their platforms, and many are now advocating for slow fashion. They educate their followers about its benefits, encouraging thoughtful purchasing decisions that support fair wages, better working conditions, and reduced environmental impact.

The slow fashion philosophy promotes buying fewer but higher quality items that last longer. This approach supports more sustainable and ethical fashion choices. Movements like "Fashion Revolution Day" (LDN 2022) and from the readings that are provided by Norealyna (2024) highlight the growing awareness and demand for such choices, driven by a desire for personal growth, well-being, and ethical commitments. This shift is evident in the increasing number of influencers promoting these ideals on social media.

I'm grateful to see that many people in this generation are embracing thrifting, redesigning their clothes with various materials, and turning them into masterpieces and selling secondhand clothes online. Social media influencers can influence the world by sharing and educating the right information and changing people’s thinking and lifestyles by sustainable practices and ethical consumption.  I hope you guys can take a moment to explore some influencers who champion slow fashion and see how you can incorporate their tips into your own life. Let's make a difference by savoring the joy that comes after the refreshing ‘crack’ of opening Coke. Comment below to share your opinions and let me know who your favorite influencers are and how they’ve influenced you. *heart *

References 

Kate Fletcher, 2017, Slow fashion, The Ecologist, viewed 18 May 2024, <https://theecologist.org/2007/jun/01/slow-fashion>

LDN, S L 2022, What is slow fashion?: Clothing minimalism, Slow Living LDN, viewed 18 May 2024 , <https://slowlivingldn.com/journal/live-consciously/slow-fashion-minimalist-wardrobe>

Norealyna Misman, 2024, ‘MDA 20009 Digital Communities, Week 7: Digital citizenship case study: Social Media Influencers and the slow fashion movement’, MDA20009 Digital Communities, Learning materials via Canvas, Swinburne University of Technology, 24 April, viewed 18 May 2024,

<Week 7: Readings: 2024-HX03-MDA20009-Digital Communities (Subang) (instructure.com)>

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

Welcome To Lam’s Blog 

Heya! Done reading my first post? Now let's dive into the topic of digital citizenship. Who are those ‘CITIZENS’? AI? Data? 

Nope, WE are digital citizens. 

How?

Digital citizens are anyone who uses the internet to connect to the digital society. Digital citizenship includes the rules and regulations we follow when using technology, like privacy, safety, responsibility, respect, and peace in digital communities. If you're curious about responsible online behavior (Digital Citizenship 101 2023).

As a digital citizen, I bet you're familiar with hashtags. Every post, reel, or article on social platforms has hashtags below. What are hashtags for? Hashtags help expose the information you share to the right audiences. They're like simple signs to connect people online and communicate or discuss similar topics.

 This link has some interesting stats that let you know the importance of hashtag on media:

Hashtags aren't just for #OOTD or #RAYAOUTFIT. They can transform activism, like #ClimateStrike and #StopAsianHate (Jagoo 2022). The power of hashtags helps promote social issues, letting more people understand the intersectionality of these issues and trying to change society. In the recent reading, intersectionality highlighted by Choi and Cristol (2021), shows how various aspects of identity (like race, gender, and class) interconnect and affect experiences with social inequalities.

Furthermore, social media platforms can also impact political engagement and activism. For example, #AllEyesOnRafah is now trending on Malaysian media platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram. 

This activism has raised awareness about the situation in Rafah. People share it all over social media to get international advocacy efforts, humanitarian aid, or policy responses from governments and organizations. They use hashtags to engage users and transform activism into powerful political movements.

As well as the #MAGA (Make America Great Again) slogan, from Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, is another powerful example of digital citizenship. It had a major impact on American politics and society, helping Trump supporters organize and shape debates on economic nationalism, immigration, and law and order. Widely used on social media, #MAGA amplified Trump's messages, increased political polarization, and led to counter-movements like #Resistance. The slogan became a cultural symbol, especially through red MAGA hats, influencing media coverage and public opinion. It also guided economic and legislative actions, supporting the "America First" agenda and boosting political legitimacy among Trump supporters (#MAGA).

To be honest, sometimes as a digital citizenship we can share those post or write a post to support the campaigns or serious social justice that on going to give out your supports to contribute one hand to make the real-world change.

Join hashtag movements from now on, spread kindness online together : )

Comment your thoughts or experiences with digital citizenship below. I'd love to hear from you!

See you on next blog #lamdigitalcommunitiesblog ! Hehe!

References 

As it happened: Climate strike protests sweep around the world, n.d. , BBC News, viewed 17 May 2024,

< https://www.bbc.com/news/live/world-49753710>

Choi, M., & Cristol, D 2021, Digital citizenship with intersectionality lens: Towards participatory democracy driven digital citizenship education. Theory Into Practice, 60(4), 361–370.viewed 17 May 2024,

<https://doi.org/10.1080/00405841.2021.1987094>

Digital Citizenship 101: Responsible online behavior: 2024, 2023, CyberCitizenship.org. viewed 16 May 2024, <https://www.cybercitizenship.org/digital-citizenship-guide/#1-the-basics-of-digital-citizenship>

Jagoo, K 2022, What’s come out of the #StopAsianHate movement a year after the Atlanta shootings, Verywell Mind, viewed 16 May 2024,

<https://www.verywellmind.com/the-stop-asian-hate-movement-one-year-later-5224611>

#MAGA, make America great again and Social Media, n.d. , #MoveMe, viewed 17 May2024,

<https://moveme.studentorg.berkeley.edu/project/maga/>

[wengdotlam]

Week 5 Digital Communities and Fandom

Welcome To Lam’s Blog 

What's up, Digital Com Buddies! This is my first post on my blog, so I want to discuss something that's been fascinating me lately – the relationship between reality TV and digital communities. In one of my recent modules, I learned that reality TV can act as a public sphere where private individuals come together to share knowledge and engage in discussions that can lead to political change. This sphere relies on unrestricted access to information, equal participation, and freedom from economic and institutional influences (Norealyna 2023).

Specifically, I'm going to talk about a show that's taken the world by storm, "Heart Signal." This is my first and favorite dating reality TV show I've ever watched *blinks eyes*.

"Heart Signal" isn't just another dating show. It’s a phenomenon. For those who might not know, "Heart Signal" brings together a group of singles in a luxurious setting, watching their interactions and emotional journeys unfold in real time. The show’s success lies in its ability to craft genuine connections and relatable moments that resonate deeply with viewers.

This is when the exciting part starts. The influence of the show goes much beyond television. Supporters swarm to social media groups, websites, and online forums to offer their opinions, theories, and encouragement for their preferred competitors. This virtual engagement forges a very strong sense of belonging and community.

The reason I love "Heart Signal" is just because I love gossiping about other people's love lives. I feel excited if I guess the next episode right. It's not just entertainment; it creates a unique bond between viewers and contestants, sparking vibrant digital communities where fans can connect, discuss, and even form lasting friendships.

I have personally witnessed the emergence and development of these online groups. Fans begin by talking about their favorite episodes and situations, but it soon develops into something more.

Can find through this link:

This clearly explains the fandom in "Heart Signal." The fan engagement of the dating show is high. They write and blog to explain and discuss the episodes, and they support each other. Furthermore, fans can relate to the situations and feelings the contestants face in the show. (P.S.: I cried because of the show too.) According to Fan Circles (2023), this identification fosters a sense of belonging, making the digital community feel like a safe space where members can share personal experiences and advice. Many fans relate to the emotional journeys of the contestants, which mirrors their own experiences in relationships and life. This sense of shared experience strengthens community bonds and encourages deeper interaction.

Fans also contribute content that didn't show up on the show, like memes of the contestants, quotes, and fan fiction on digital platforms such as TikTok, Twitter, and Tumblr. This keeps the community active and dynamic. Such creative contributions not only entertain but also help in building a more cohesive and interactive community (Staff,2023).

I highly recommend you guys watch "Heart Signal" or any reality TV show and think about the digital ripple effect it creates. There's a whole world of passionate fans out there, connecting, creating, and contributing to a vibrant digital community. And who knows, you might just find yourself becoming a part of it too!

Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences with reality TV fandoms in the comments. I'd love to hear from you!

References

Fan communities: More than just followers, 2023,  FanCircles, viewed 14 May 2024, <https://www.fancircles.com/fan-communities-more-than-just-followers/>

Five reasons why ‘heart signal 3’ is the must-watch show of the season, n.d. ,Soompi, viewed 15 May 2024,

<https://www.soompi.com/article/1397488wpp/5-reasons-why-heart-signal-3-is-the-must-watch-show-of-the-season>

Norealyna Misman, 2024, ‘MDA20009 Week 5 Reality Tv Case Study’, MDA20009 Digital Communities, Learning materials via Canvas, Swinburne University of Technology, 18 April, viewed 15 May 2024,

<https://swinburne.instructure.com/courses/59779/pages/week-5-reality-tv-case-study-lecture-2?module_item_id=4214174>

Staff, E 2023, The social and technological evolution of fandoms through New Media and Mass Communication, TwoTwoOne.NYC, viewed 15 May 2024, <https://twotwoone.nyc/the-social-and-technological-evolution-of-fandoms-through-new-media-and-mass-communication/>