Trends, Networks, and Critical Thinking in the 21st Century - Unit 1

A collection of vocabulary flashcards defining key concepts, elements, and identification processes for trends and fads as presented in Unit 1 of the lecture.

Trend

A recurrent phenomenon that takes place over time and gives rise to speculation on the future (Sanders, Soper, and Rothell $2002$).

Fad

An intense and widely shared enthusiasm for something, especially a short-lived one; a craze.

Appeal

The element of a trend or fad representing the degree of attraction it holds for people.

Result

The element of a trend that refers to the impact it has.

Scope

The element of a trend referring to the extent of the influence or the size of the audience it caters to.

Support

The structure that enables a trend to be sustainable, which is often supported by several fads or existing trends.

Sustainability

The length of time a phenomenon persists; trends are sustained for long periods, while fads only for a short period.

Value

The element of a trend referring to its usefulness.

Factors shaping Trends

The core forces that form trends, including human needs, historical forces, globalization, and digital connectivity and social media.

Megatrends

Interdisciplinary long-term trends that will determine the future for a large part of the world (Hajkowicz $2015$).

Microtrends

A short-lived niche trend that quickly rises in popularity, especially on social media platforms like TikTok, and fades just as fast (lasting only weeks or months).

Trend Analysis

The process of collecting and analyzing historical and current data to identify patterns and predict future outcomes, granting "FUTURE VISION".

Trendspotting

The process of identifying trends by attempting to see the future in the present situation.

Trend Spotter

Individuals who notice activities that people are starting to do or someone who reports on new fashions.