Is Social Media Making Us Smarter or Just Louder?

By: Caitlin Franklin | Seasonal Public Relations Intern | Digital4Good

Social media has become a huge part of our lives. Whether it’s TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn, we truly have the world in our hands. In some cases, this convenient mode of communication has made it easier to learn new things. Word spreads fast now, but how much of it is valuable?

How Social Media Promotes Learning

When used with intention, social media can bring endless amounts of information to our screens, from cooking tutorials to mental health advice. 

Access to Information

Social media provides instant access to information in a variety of formats — everything from infographics to DIY videos — making it a great way to learn new skills. A single search brings up a wide variety of content, helping you gain a broader understanding of a topic. 

Community and Connection

Social media has a unique way of uniting people. With advancements in technology, you now have access to different cultures, ideologies, and interests, all at your fingertips. Communities and spaces like Facebook posts, Instagram group chats, and Reddit forums create opportunities for new connections with people from around the globe. 

Raising Awareness

Online platforms can rally people together to advance important causes like mental health. Social media is a great tool for grassroots organizations to gain traction and spread awareness quickly.

When Social Media Becomes Too Loud

With the abundance of information available online, social media sometimes creates more noise than knowledge. Here are a few things to look out for.

Misinformation

Misinformation is a global problem that makes it difficult for people to separate fact from fiction. Misleading information can quickly spread online, making it necessary to seek out unbiased, trustworthy sources if you’re doing important research.

Echo Chambers

Echo chambers are another area of concern, which reinforce existing beliefs and ideas rather than promoting diverse information and opinions. Much of this has to do with algorithms showing us content that we already agree with, limiting our ability to see different views.

Comparison Culture

Social media content is often glamorized and exaggerated for the purpose of entertainment. It’s great to be inspired by others, but comparing your own life to these heavily edited versions of reality can warp your perception of what is normal and achievable. 

Shortened Attention Spans

A commonly overlooked issue that impacts everyday life is the shortening of attention spans. Quick scrolling on short-form content platforms like TikTok has made it easy for people to consume bite-size information without pausing for reflection.

How to Cut Through the Noise

• Curate a positive and educational feed. Fill your timeline with things that inspire and interest you. Follow the accounts of credible organizations that share research-based information. 
• Avoid reposting misinformation. Before sharing a post or article claiming to be factual, check the F.A.C.T.S.
• Join meaningful conversations. Engage with online communities that discuss topics that genuinely interest you. Participate in discussions, follow the experts, and don’t be afraid to consider new ways of thinking.
• Take breaks when needed. It’s okay to step away from social media for a while to protect your mental health.

Join the Movement for a Smarter, Kinder Web

Social media is much more than just endless scrolling. When used with intention, it can be a portal to knowledge, connection, and growth. 

Need more resources on social media literacy? Turn likes and shares into learning with Digital4Good’s Social Media Literacy Curriculum. Together, we can make digital spaces that lift us all higher, one post at a time!