Wait there's MORE?—Discovering New Social Media Platforms

Living in a world with constant and rapid changes, specifically in a digital world, forces individuals to engage with various social and digital media platforms and tools. I could not have thought of a better time to take this course and learn about Web 2.0 and its societal influence. If it was not for this course, I would not pay close attention to the latest social and digital media outlets. EME 6414 has shifted my lens and perspective when thinking about and engaging with social and digital media. I used to feel the need to constantly stay on all platforms because I strongly feared missing out. However, this course has taught me to critically think about the ones I participate in. Should I be participating for my own knowledge consumption, or am I choosing to create all of these platforms so I can always catch what is trending? Now, we are in a world where everyone is on social media, which can cause additional challenges. One very important and favorite platform of mine, Twitter, is experiencing trouble due to changes from Elon Musk. The changes introduced another tool, Threads, for individuals to engage in, similar to Twitter. I thought it was cool for it to emerge so quickly. However, I could not download and create an account. I am in this stage where I want to minimize how much time I spend on social media. However, I have friends sharing how much they love Threads, so I feel I am missing out. What are your thoughts on Threads? Do you see yourself creating an account? Is there a thing as TOO MANY social media apps? I am still figuring out whether Threads will be my next account.

Comments

How Does Social Media Fit in Developing Countries?

Reflecting on this week, I loved that we connected our learning to international perspectives, which allowed me to dig deeper into how technology is utilized beyond U.S.-based perceptions. I often take social media for granted because it can get overwhelming and exhausting if not appropriately balanced. Social media has been a pivotal way for me to learn information; I would even say to learn information globally. The access to resources that increase our knowledge consumption is a privilege that not many developing countries are afforded. Therefore, I wanted to know more about similarities and distinct differences in social media use across the U.S. context and developing countries. In full transparency, this is the first time that I have been able to explore international perspectives in digital media. I found another article that provided an overview through various charts and graphs that were helpful. I never considered how social media can reach a place of stoppage that does not c...

Keeping up With Technology—Digital Natives vs. Digital Immigrants

Before this week's readings, I only partially thought about generational differences when it comes to technology. Yes, I know there have been distinct differences between how I grew up as a child compared to my parents and now my nieces and nephew with using technology. I did not always have the latest technology growing up, but when I did, it felt like I "had" to have it to stay connected to what my peers were experiencing. My nieces and nephew are now growing up with all types of technology (tablets, school laptops, YouTube, TikTok, etc.) because it is so prevalent in their experiences and upbringing. While reflecting on the readings, the part that shocked me the most would have to be the terms digital natives and digital immigrants (Prensky, 2001). I knew that these specific "identities" regarding technology usage existed, but I did not know there was a term that classified it all together until the Prensky (2001) article. As described in the article, ...

"New Look, Who Dis" Blog Makeover

What a perfect challenge to engage in! It is time for a CHANGE. Change is good. Change is scary. Change is important. I was curious to know how I wanted my blogger site to look when we were tasked with creating our blogger account. I went with something that felt "safe" or comfortable to my liking. I wanted to represent myself, given the headshot. I added something representing my fraternity, and then the overall color with the orange sunset vibe felt like something I would enjoy. I went with some standard or default choices regarding my fonts, backgrounds, and gadgets. The options were endless; I was correct! My blogger design worked for me, and I did not feel like it was something I would grow to hate or dislike. Due to the blog makeover challenge, I am open to embracing this new change! I changed parts of the layout; I chose a different color and switched some fonts to provide a more contemporary feel, look, and vibe. Any suggestions? Thoughts? I am willing to continue t...

Johnnie Allen Jr.

Search This Blog