1.1 Defining Social Media and Key Concepts

Social media revolutionized online communication, transforming static web pages into interactive platforms. It empowers users to create, share, and exchange information globally, blurring lines between content creators and consumers.

The social media landscape continues to evolve, with new platforms and features emerging constantly. From social networking sites to microblogging services, these platforms facilitate diverse interactions and shape various aspects of modern society.

Defining Social Media

Web 2.0 and Digital Platforms

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  Web 2.0 in 2006? | From my year-end recap article here: web2… | Flickr View original

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• Web 2.0 represents the shift from static to interactive web pages
• Enables user participation, collaboration, and content creation
• Digital platforms provide infrastructure for social media applications
• Facilitate seamless communication and information sharing across devices
• Incorporate features like real-time updates, multimedia sharing, and user profiles

Characteristics of Social Media

• Social media encompasses online platforms for user interaction and content sharing
• Allows users to create, share, and exchange information in virtual communities
• Facilitates two-way communication between individuals, groups, and organizations
• Blurs lines between content creators and consumers (prosumers)
• Enables rapid dissemination of information on a global scale

Evolution of Social Media Landscape

• Continuous development of new platforms and features
• Integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms
• Emergence of niche social networks catering to specific interests or demographics
• Increased focus on privacy and data protection measures
• Growing influence on various aspects of society (politics, business, entertainment)

Types of Social Media

Social Networking Platforms

• Facilitate connections between individuals and organizations
• Allow users to create personal profiles and build networks
• Enable sharing of various content types (text, images, videos)
• Include features like friend lists, news feeds, and messaging systems
• Popular examples include Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram

Microblogging and Content Sharing Services

• Microblogging platforms focus on short-form content and quick updates
• Limit post length to encourage concise communication (Twitter's 280 characters)
• Content sharing services specialize in specific media types
• YouTube focuses on video content, while Pinterest emphasizes image sharing
• Allow users to follow others, comment, and share content within their networks

Virtual Communities and Forums

• Bring together individuals with shared interests or goals
• Discussion forums organize conversations by topics or threads
• Online gaming communities foster collaboration and competition
• Professional networks facilitate knowledge sharing and career development
• Include platforms like Reddit, Stack Exchange, and industry-specific forums

Key Concepts

User-Generated Content and Its Impact

• Content created and shared by users rather than professional producers
• Includes text posts, photos, videos, reviews, and comments
• Democratizes content creation and distribution processes
• Challenges traditional media gatekeeping roles
• Raises issues of copyright, authenticity, and content moderation

Social Interaction in Digital Spaces

• Facilitates communication and relationship-building in online environments
• Enables diverse forms of interaction (one-to-one, one-to-many, many-to-many)
• Incorporates features like likes, comments, shares, and reactions
• Influences formation of online communities and social capital
• Presents challenges related to privacy, digital etiquette, and online safety

Engagement Metrics and Strategies

• Measures user interaction and involvement with content or platforms
• Includes quantitative metrics (views, likes, shares) and qualitative analysis
• Helps assess content effectiveness and audience reach
• Informs content strategy and platform algorithm development
• Raises concerns about attention economy and digital well-being