Sanju Saha, Santoshi Halder - The Routledge Handbook of Education Technology (2023, Routledge) - libgen.li

Advancement of Technology and Communication

The advancement of technology enables meaningful digital connections beyond mere greetings like "Hi" or "Hello." Modern communication shifts from face-to-face interactions to digital exchanges, creating an interactive environment for updates, feedback, and conversations. Social media, a crucial element of this digital landscape, facilitates the exchange of ideas, interests, photos, and videos among individuals through virtual community networks.

Meaning and Definition of Social Media

Social media generally refers to platforms that allow people to communicate and socialize online. Its importance in our lives has grown, as it fosters the sharing of thoughts, visuals, and information. Researchers offer various definitions of social media:

• Buettner (2016): Computer-mediated tools enabling users to create, share, or exchange information within networks.

• Howard and Parks (2012): Defines social media as comprising three components: tools for content production and distribution, the content itself, and the people/organizations involved.

• Russo et al. (2008): Describes it as facilitating online communication and collaboration.

• Boyd and Ellison (2007): Defines social network sites as platforms where users can create profiles, connect with others, and explore these connections.

Social media can be seen as Web 2.0 technology, allowing real-time or asynchronous interaction among diverse global audiences.

Characteristics of Social Media

Social media includes several defining characteristics:

• Two-Way Interactive Processes: Unlike traditional media, social media supports interactive communication, fostering a dialogue between content creators and audiences.

• User-Generated Content: All participants contribute as authors and content creators, making social networks dynamic and engaging.

• Community-Driven: Social media platforms function similar to real-life communities, connecting users with shared interests.

• Information Sharing: Facilitates global sharing of articles and discussions with ease, replacing traditional distribution methods.

• Openness: Encourages active participation and feedback.

• Global Relationships: Promotes active interactions across borders.

• Emotional Expression: Provides emotional support during personal challenges.

Classifications of Social Media

1. Social Networking Sites: Platforms enabling social connections based on mutual interests (e.g., Facebook, Twitter).

2. Blogs: Personal online journals where users express their thoughts and ideas.

3. Content Material and Sharing Communities: Platforms for sharing specific types of user-generated content, primarily through photo and video sharing (e.g., Flickr, YouTube).

4. User Appraisal Sites: Platforms for reviewing and comparing products and services.

5. Wikis: Collaborative platforms allowing users to add and edit content (e.g., Wikipedia).

6. Podcasts: Audio and video files available for subscription and sharing.

7. Boards: Online forums for discussion on specific topics.

8. Micro-Blogging: Platforms for sharing brief updates (e.g., Twitter).

Evolution or History of Social Media

Social Media Before 1900

• Early communication methods included written correspondence and the invention of the postal carrier in 550 BC.

• Significant advancements like the telegraph (1792) allowed faster message delivery.

• The telephone (1890) and radio (1891) revolutionized long-distance communication.

Social Media in the 20th Century

• The rise of computers in the 1940s and the development of early internet forms in the 1960s marked significant advancements.

• Notable milestones include the inception of email, UseNet (1979), and IRCs (1988).

• The first recognizable social media site, SixDegrees, was launched in 1997, allowing users to create profiles and connect.

Social Media in the 21st Century

• Post-2000, platforms like MySpace and Facebook gained popularity, followed by Twitter and YouTube.

• This era marks intense growth and transformation in the social media landscape, constantly evolving with user needs.

Comparison of Social Media with Conventional Media

Unlike conventional media (e.g., newspapers, TV), social media is characterized by:

• Accessibility: Low-cost platforms are available for all users.

• Immediacy: Instant communication and feedback.

• Permanence: Social media content can be altered even after posting.

• Usability: Requires minimal technical skills for user-generated content.

• Reach: Decentralized structure promoting varied production points.