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Digital Citizenship and Civic Engagement
Digital Citizenship and Civic Engagement
We’ve had a broad discussion on being a responsible citizen in a digital realm. We would be remiss to not include a discussion on how social media is being used as a tool for civic engagement.
Social Media in particular can be a tool not only express views and ideas, but powerful tools to create change. In light of our previous discussion on digital citizenship, it’s important to recognize that when one engages civically, all the online norms of behavior - digital footprint, cyberbullying, etc. - are strongly in effect. Still, using social media responsibly to participate in the global discourse on ideas of import that impact our lives is crucial for us and students in our charge. Below are some examples of how social media is being used to stress the dominant discourse to reimagine what’s possible.
The Social Media Connection
The Social Media Connection
"The Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. We conduct public opinion polling, demographic research, content analysis and other data-driven social science research. We do not take policy positions." (Pew Research Center, 2020) In 2018, the Pew research Center published an article with their findings on social activism with the use of social media. This article outlines that "social networking sites have also emerged as a key venue for political debate and discussion and at times a place to engage in civic-related activities."
As more of our students participate in the online social media platforms, it may be worth consideration that social media can be beneficial in the lives of our students. Consider this article on "9 ways that students use social media for good." (ISTE, 2019) From sharing tools and resources to creating digital portfolios, social media use can help students curate their digital footprint. According to the author, "Students around the globe are tapping into social media to get involved with world-changing projects and share their passions." Careful guidance and considerations for appropriate use of social media is necessary, however this area of online life isn't going away for students or adults anytime soon.
"Public attitudes toward political engagement on social media ...." 11 Jul. 2018, https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2018/07/11/public-attitudes-toward-political-engagement-on-social-media/. Accessed 7 Oct. 2020.
"9 ways that students use social media for good...."2 Oct. 2019, https://www.iste.org/explore/Digital-citizenship/9-ways-real-students-use-social-media-for-good. Accessed 7, Oct. 2020.
Image credit: The Pew Research Center, 2018.
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