EDCI final project.pdf

With the rise of technology, social media has become an integral part of society. People use social platforms to connect with one another and to share content and information. While social media is predominantly used for entertainment purposes, platforms like YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and Reddit can be used as valuable learning tools. Moreover, its accessibility, ability to connect users, educational resources, and stimulating effects make it practical for information exchange and knowledge expansion.

While social media can be a powerful learning tool, improper usage can be harmful to learners, especially young children. More specifically, predominant ways in which social media can be detrimental to learning is when it becomes a distraction rather than an educative tool, misinformation is spread and shared, and when used as a source for unhealthy comparison (Abi-Jaoude et al., 2020). To avoid these circumstances, users should set boundaries around their social media usage, limit their exposure to non-educational content, and prioritize following credible sources of information. Parents and instructors should also monitor children’s social media usage and teach them how to use it responsibly, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and fact checking (Daneels & Vanwynsberghe, 2017) .

Furthermore, different social media platforms have unique features that cater to different audiences for varied purposes. For example, YouTube is purposeful for instructional videos, LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking and job searching, Instagram is beneficial for creativity and building brand identity, Twitter is advantageous for keeping people aware of current events, and Reddit is useful for the user feedback. Using different forms of social media sources effectively can help individuals maximize their learning and engage with their audiences in meaningful and insightful ways. Moreover, when using social media responsibly, users can expand their social connections and benefit from its educational purposes.

Put the lesson into practice:

1. Conduct a thorough research on social media platforms, their features, and how they are used by individuals and businesses. Look for reputable sources such as research studies, scholarly articles, and analytical data.
2. Reflect on your own experiences with social media and how it has impacted your life. Consider both positive and negative aspects of your own social media use and how it has affected your relationships, mental health, and overall well-being.
3. Based on your research, analysis, and reflection, form a balanced conclusion about the pros and cons of social media. Recognize that social media can have both positive and negative aspects, and its impact may vary depending on how it is being used.

References:

Abi-Jaoude, E., Naylor, K. T., & Pignatiello, A. (2020). Smartphones, social media use and youth mental health. Cmaj, 192 (6), E136-E141.

Daneels, R., & Vanwynsberghe, H. (2017). Mediating social media use: connecting parents mediation strategies and social media literacy. Cyberpsychology: journal of psychosocial research on cyberpspace.-Brno, 11 (3), 5.