Audiences & Social Media

Uses & Gratifications SurveillanceIdentity RelationshipsDiversion

Learning Outcomes Must recognise how the internet and freedom of information has led to the social networking boom. Should identify the common critiques of the social networking ideals. Could engage in a debate which evaluates the positives and negatives of social networking.

Freedom to interact and share (U&G model?) Negative effects on social skills (Effects Model?)

Freedom to interact and share (U&G model?) Negative effects on social skills (Effects Model?)

What is a social network?

A social network is a website specifically established to allow users to communicate directly with each other on topics of mutual interest.

Examples of social networks?

Generic conventions of social network websites

What is the ideology of social networking?

PositivesNegatives

The Secret History of Social Networking

Social Networks as INSTITUTIONS > What is a media institution?

Social Networks as INSTITUTIONS  A media institution is an organisation that produces media texts.  Media institutions play a key role in defining key social and cultural values.

Twitter as an INSTITUTION  Valued at around $10bn.  Using your own knowledge, and what you learned in the documentary, in what ways can Twitter now be considered a media institution of cultural significance?

What are the dangers and risks associated with social networking?

‘The Biological Implications for Social Networking’ by Dr. Aric Sigman: ‘Friend Networking Sites and Their Relationship to Adolescents’ Well-Being and Social Self-Esteem’

Divide yourself into groups of 3. And number yourselves 1, 2 and 3.

“Social networking does more harm than good”. Discuss Person 1: you are to argue that online social networks are damaging to society; they affect people’s basic interpersonal skills, and carry too many risks. Person 2: you are to argue that online social networks are not damaging; they do more good than bad, and promote and develop human interaction. Person 3: you are the scribe! Write down both arguments. It is also your job to ensure that persons 1 and 2 are making appropriate arguments, and using examples to back up their points.