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Week 12: Crowdsourcing in Times of Crisis

When a crisis arises, every second matters. Conventional approaches to information collection and response can be laborious and slow. This is where crowdsourcing comes into play, providing a potent instrument to harness the resources and combined knowledge of the populace.

By using the Internet, social media, and smartphone apps, a huge number of individuals can contribute their work, information, or opinions through a process known as crowdsourcing (Hargrave 2022). A few examples of crowdsourcing:

Data collection: Compiling details regarding the magnitude of the damage, the places impacted, and the immediate requirements on the ground. Crisis mapping: charting places that are inundated, infrastructure that is damaged, or roads that are closed in real time. Search and rescue: Making use of social media posts and eyewitness accounts to find those who have gone missing. Fundraising: To support relief efforts and long-term rehabilitation, crowdfunding platforms can help raise crucial finances.

A few advantages of crowdsourcing are reach and speed. Crowdsourcing enables quick information collection and distribution, which is essential during the vital initial hours of a crisis. Local knowledge. The most recent information about the situation is frequently held by those who are physically there. Scalability. Crowdsourcing can draw from a large pool of resources, including local knowledge and technological know-how. Lastly, an increased involvement from the public and openness.

And the disadvantages of crowdsourcing are as such, depending on the crowd that is being sourced, results can be easily distorted. Lack of ownership or secrecy regarding an idea. Possibility of missing the finest opportunities, skills, or guidance and failing to achieve the intended outcome (Hargrave 2022).

The topic of crowdsourcing is quickly developing and has enormous promise for disaster response. Through addressing the obstacles and incorporating crowdsourcing into official response plans, we may develop a more effective and human-centered crisis management strategy. Sites for crowdsourcing, such as Ushahidi, were essential in mapping damaged infrastructure and locating survivors after the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Relief efforts during Hurricane Sandy were supported by crowdsourcing data on flooded streets and power shortages.

Here are a few things that you can do:

Seek out reputable crowdsourcing websites that are operational during emergencies.

Contribute responsibly by checking facts before sharing them and avoiding starting rumours.

If you are skilled in a certain area (translation, data analysis), think about offering your services online as a volunteer.

And so, you may use the strength of the public to transform a catastrophe into a chance for cooperation and fortitude.

References

Hargrave, M 2022, “Crowdsourcing: Definition, How It Works, Types, and Examples,” Investopedia, accessed 14 June 2024, https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/crowdsourcing.asp

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Week 11: Social Media Governance

Social media has transformed communication by promoting interaction and giving voices a larger platform. But disagreement also grows out of this open forum. Social media companies struggle to control these online interactions, which range from heated political disputes to the spreading of false information.

The complicated issues of war and social media administration are explored in this blog. We'll look at the difficulties that platforms encounter and talk about possible fixes to promote a safer online environment.

The sheer foundation of social media might make conflict worse. Users are frequently kept in echo chambers by algorithmic curation, which worsens division by validating existing opinions. The ease of sharing and anonymity can encourage hate, which can result in the spread of damaging content and personal attacks. Many experts worry that deceptive and uncivilised online behaviour will continue and maybe worsen. Social media will fragment into "safe spaces" that are governed by AI and kept apart from unrestricted areas as a result. Some fear that this will impede free speech and jeopardise privacy (Rainie & Rainie 2024).

Social media companies are forced to strike a balance. It's critical to strike a balance between content restriction and free speech.

Freedom of Speech Issues: Tight content control may be interpreted as censorship that stifles healthy discussion. Safety Concerns: Unrestrained hostility has the potential to drive people away and serve as a haven for manipulation and abuse.

There isn't a solution that works for everyone. These are some strategies that platforms are investigating:

Content Transparency: It is the right of users to know how content is filtered by platforms. Users can report problematic content by using flagging systems and clearer instructions. Algorithmic Modifications: Websites can work to develop algorithms that support a range of opinions and prevent the spread of false information. Fact-Checking and User Education: Countering disinformation can be accomplished through working with fact-checkers and encouraging media literacy among users. User Empowerment: By giving users the ability to filter out negative content and curate their own feeds, these tools can enable users to make the internet a happier place.

Platforms for social media are only one component of the problem. Users are also accountable for:

Be aware of how they behave when they are online: Be kind and refrain from spreading hate. Consider sharing before you do. Check information before spreading it, and steer clear of stuff that has been sensationalised. Participate in productive conversations: Respectfully disagree while concentrating on finding points of agreement.

Social media is a powerful tool for positive dialogue and connection building. Together, platforms, users, and legislators can build a more impartial and polite online space where disagreement encourages constructive discussion rather than divisiveness.

References

Proctor, K. 2021. Social Media and Conflict: Understanding Risks and Resilience; An Applied Framework for Analysis. Washington, D.C.: Mercy Corps, https://www.mercycorps.org/sites/default/files/2021-08/Assessing-Digital-Conflict-Risks-Resilience-073021.pdf

Rainie, L & Rainie, L 2024, “The Future of Free Speech, Trolls, Anonymity and Fake News Online,” Pew Research Center, https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2017/03/29/the-future-of-free-speech-trolls-anonymity-and-fake-news-online

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Week 10: Gaming

From the days of pixelated visuals and awkward controls, gaming has advanced significantly. It is now a universal phenomena that cuts over time, place, and cultural boundaries. In the world of gaming, there's a whole new universe just waiting to be discovered, regardless of your level of experience.

There is an incredible variety of games to choose from. There is a genre to fit every taste, ranging from expansive open-world role-playing games to puzzle-solving adventures and action-packed first-person shooters. The world of esports, where professional gamers compete for glory (and prize money!), appeals to anyone with a competitive spirit.

Though amusement and fun are certainly important aspects of gaming, there's more to it than that. Playing games can truly improve a variety of cognitive abilities, including perception, memory, reasoning, and spatial navigation (Video Games Play May Provide Learning, Health, Social Benefits, Review Finds 2013). In multiplayer games specifically, they can help develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.

The gaming business in Malaysia is flourishing, and both players and creators are becoming more numerous. The government is taking steps to encourage the growth of this industry in recognition of its potential. This offers players in the gaming industry, both domestic and foreign, intriguing opportunities. According to a recent statement from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), the gaming sector brought in $100 million (RM468 million) in income for Malaysia in 2018. It was estimated that between 2018 and current year, this would develop at a compound annual growth rate of 10.9%, reaching a market volume of US$168 million (RM790 million) (Bernama 2023).

So you want to get involved in the gaming community? Here are some pointers:

Begin with your areas of interest: Investigate a variety of genres to determine your favourite. Think about your spending: From free-to-play smartphone games to expensive PC games, there are games to fit any budget. Make an investigation: Before purchasing a game, read reviews and watch gameplay videos. Make contact with other players: To interact and exchange experiences with other players, join online communities or gaming forums.

Gaming offers something for everyone, whether you're seeking for a brief diversion after a long day or a complex and engaging experience. Now turn on your system, take out your controller, and get in to play!

References

“Video Games Play May Provide Learning, Health, Social Benefits, Review Finds” 2013, https://www.apa.org, accessed .

Bernama 2023, “Esports growth accelerated this year,” NST Online, accessed .

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Week 9: Face Filters

Unquestionably, face filters are now an integral component of the digital world. These filters have the power to completely change our photos, videos, and even live streams. From the adorable puppy ears on Snapchat to the sculpting and smoothing effects on Instagram. However, what are face filters exactly, and how are they affecting our online personas and interactions with technology?

The technology behind face filters is augmented reality. Enhancing the physical world with real-time digital features to create a three-dimensional experience is known as augmented reality (What’s Behind Augmented Reality Face Filters? – Quantilus Innovation 2021). AR filters impose digital components on your face, such as those funny sunglasses or cuddly animal ears. Conversely, AI filters are able to examine your face features and make small or large adjustments, such as altering your jawline entirely or whitening wrinkles and brightening smiles.

Funny filters were popular at first, but the emergence of beauty filters has started a new discussion. These days, a lot of filters are AI-powered rather than AR, which makes them even more eerily realistic (Jgln 2023). By enhancing natural features, these filters can produce a more polished and symmetrical appearance. But it's easy to miss the distinction between augmentation and unattainable beauty standards. Constant exposure to photoshopped faces can cause problems with body image and distort one's idea of what is beautiful.

As facial filter technology develops further, striking a healthy balance is crucial. Platforms should encourage ethical use and provide a range of filter settings that support individual expression over idealised, unattainable beauty. On the other hand, users can enjoy the fun of digital makeovers while being conscious of the message they portray with filtered photographs and embracing their inherent beauty.

Face filters are here to stay, and they have a lot more of an influence than just attractive selfies. You can traverse this constantly evolving digital landscape by being aware of the technology and its possible effects, regardless of whether you utilise them for lighter or more artistic purposes.

References

What’s Behind Augmented Reality Face Filters? – Quantilus Innovation 2021, accessed .

Jgln, K 2023, “The Ugly Truth About Our Obsession With Social Media’s Beauty Filters,” Medium, accessed .

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Week 8: Body Modification on Visual Social Media

Body alteration has been practiced for ages, ranging from traditional tattoos and piercings to more serious body sculpting. However, there has been a significant change in how we view and interact with body alterations in the era of Instagram and TikTok. Let's explore the intriguing realm of visual social media body art.

Formerly confined to the edges of society, body alteration has become a widely recognised and embraced mode of self-expression (OTunnels 2023). People are showcasing their uniqueness, ethnic background, and even beliefs through bodily modification. An active online community flourishes, bringing together individuals who share interests and enabling them to exchange stories.

Social media can have a negative effect on how adults and young people feel about their bodies. However, there is also positive information that seeks to encourage leading a healthy lifestyle (Pedersen 2023). Social media sites frequently post pictures of users with what appear to be flawless looks and physique; these users frequently use filters and other photo-editing software to improve their appearance. Unrealistic beauty standards can result from this, which can cause low self-esteem and physical dissatisfaction in both men and women. On the other hand, social media can be a tool for body positivity when it is utilised responsibly. By sharing pictures of their bodies, users may encourage acceptance and self-love. The pressure to be validated on social media can be harmful. Those who have body alterations for improper reasons out of a desire for internet approval run the risk of regretting their decisions later on.

Social media body modification is probably going to have a complicated future. In addition to body positivity, responsible representation must be promoted. Platforms can help by promoting openness regarding the steps involved, the hazards involved, and the aftercare. In the end, visual social media provides a special environment for investigating body alteration. We can establish a more welcoming and inspiring online community for body art fans by encouraging candid discussions and confronting inaccurate representations.

At the end of the day, just remember you will only be happy when you accept yourself for who you are. Have a beautiful day you sexy people ;)

References

OTunnels 2023, “The Art Of Body Modification: How Piercings, Tattoos, And Ear Tunnels Shape Identity – OTunnels,” OTunnels, accessed .

Pedersen, T 2023, “How Does Social Media Affect Body Image?,” Psych Central, accessed .

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Week 7: Social Media and Slow Fashion

Surprisingly, social media, which is frequently held responsible for encouraging quick fashion trends, can also support slow fashion. Let's investigate how these platforms are altering the field of fashion.

In the fashion business, slow fashion is a trend that puts sustainability and quality above speed and affordability. This strategy places a strong emphasis on cautious production procedures and treating industry workers fairly. Additionally, slow fashion promotes the use of eco-friendly materials and longer-lasting clothing (Colucci, n.d).

Put an end to fads! Influencers in slow fashion push for wardrobe essentials, restyling existing pieces, and the skill of "making do." Lessons on clothing repair and upcycling give worn-out clothing a fresh lease on life while cutting down on waste.

Materialistic people are constantly seeking for more and, above all, more than others in terms of following, automobiles, clothes, and travel. They are more likely to engage in passive and addictive user behaviour because social media gives them the perfect opportunity to compare themselves to others. In the end, this makes individuals stressed out and results in a terrible quality of life. This negative cycle, which makes materialists unhappy, was discovered through an online poll with over 1,200 respondents (Williams, 2024).

In conclusion, social media is an effective instrument for influencing attitudes and raising awareness. We can learn from, share with, and motivate one another to adopt a more sustainable and conscientious approach to fashion by following slow fashion firms and producers. Therefore, please share, like, and comment on your slow fashion journey. Together, we can change the global fashion industry, one stitch at a time.

References:

Colucci, L “What Is Slow Fashion: The Ultimate Guide - Italian Artisan” n.d., Italian Artisan, accessed 15 May 2024,<https://italianartisan.com/what-is-slow-fashion/>.

Consult, T 2023, Harnessing the Power of Social Platforms to Drive Sustainable Fashion  In recent years, social media platforms have played a significant role in shapi, accessed 15 May 2024,<https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/harnessing-power-social-platforms-drive-sustainable-fashion/>.

Williams, R 2024, How Social Media is Driving Overconsumption and Unhappiness, accessed 15 May 2024, <https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-social-media-driving-overconsumption-unhappiness-ray-williams-zlk8c/>.

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Week 6: What is Digital Citizenship?

It is essential to comprehend what it means to be a responsible digital citizen in today's linked society. The ability to operate responsibly and safely in our digital applications, as well as to participate in them with interest and respect, is known as digital citizenship (What is Digital Citizenship? n.d.).

Three fundamental ideas were recognised by digital citizenship pioneer Mike Ribble. Beginning with respecting others, this means being mindful of others when interacting online, acting appropriately on social media, and being aware of the rules and laws that apply to the digital realm. Following with educating yourself. Being a knowledgeable digital citizen entails using technology for learning and development, recognising the possible risks associated with the internet, and cultivating critical thinking abilities to assess material found there. And to lastly protect yourself. Safeguarding your privacy, exercising caution when sharing information, and adopting safe online behaviours to avert frauds and cyberbullying are all part of protecting both yourself and other people online.

Well, I have good news! Anyone may improve their digital citizenship! These are some actions that you can do.

Consider your post before making it: Think about the possible repercussions of your online sharing, for both other people and yourself.

Be polite: Show people on the internet the same consideration and decency that you would show them in person.

Be aware of your privacy: Change your social media accounts' privacy settings and exercise caution while sharing personal information online.

Be a smart information consumer by not taking anything you read online at its entirety. Acquire the skill of information verification and recognise reliable sources.

Being a digital citizen is an ongoing process, and as technology advances, so too will the benefits and problems it poses. We can all help create a safer and more positive digital world by practicing awareness in our online behaviour and sticking to the ideals of digital citizenship.

References:

McCosker, A 2016 Negotiating Digital Citizenship: Control, Contest and Culture, viewed 10 May 2024, https://swinburne.instructure.com/courses/59779/files/29124292/download?wrap=1

“What is Digital Citizenship?” n.d., MediaSmarts, accessed <https://mediasmarts.ca/digital-media-literacy/general-information/digital-media-literacy-fundamentals/what-digital-citizenship>.

Ribble, M 2020, “Digital citizenship is more important than ever”, ISTE, accessed 10 May 2024, <https://iste.org/blog/digital-citizenship-is-more-important-than-ever>.

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Week 5: Reality TV

Reality television is one of the most fascinating and controversial genres on the great spread of television. From the earliest seasons of "Survivor" and "Big Brother" to the glamorous drama of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" and the sexual antics on "The Bachelor," reality television has become deeply ingrained in the minds of all of us. However, what is it about this genre that appeals to millions of people, and what outcomes result from our shared fixation?

The main attraction of reality TV is the unscripted, real-life drama it promises to deliver. The authenticity, however curated, of witnessing actual people deal with problems, form bonds with one another, and go about their daily lives draws in viewers. A cast of different people whose interactions were real and unscripted provided viewers with a sharp contrast to the polished perfection of scripted dramas and sitcoms. Shows like "The Real World" pioneered this approach.

People who are on Teen Mom OG don't act like the camera isn't there. The camera is front and centre, challenging both the norms that control how meaning is made and visual culture, as well as the traditional idea of what is public and private, especially when it comes to the consumer (Salibian, 2020).

In addition, reality TV is a spectacle of the current era. Television programmes such as "America's Got Talent" and "The Voice" provide viewers with a glimpse into the outstanding abilities of regular individuals, turning them into superstars overnight. The competitive aspect heightens the suspense and makes the audience obsess about the results.

Moreover, it's a mixed type of television programming that is based on factual entertainment through the experiences and performances of nonprofessional actors has gradually become more and more popular over the past 20 years, raising concerns among the public about basic moral values like, respect for human dignity and integrity, honesty, and truth (Mast 2016).

In conclusion, reality TV is still very popular and has a complex role in both reflecting and moulding society ideals, even in the face of controversy. It provides a glimpse into human nature, presenting the positive and negative aspects of humanity. It's important for us as viewers to observe reality TV critically, enjoying its entertainment value but also considering the larger repercussions for both ourselves and the people on television.

Reality TV is ultimately just a mirror, reflecting back to us as much about our interests and aspirations as it does about the people we watch with such fervour.

References:

Salibian, T 2020, “Reading Reality Television: Publicizing, Promoting, and Commodifying the Self ,” scholarship.claremont.edu, accessed May 14, 2024, <https://scholarship.claremont.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1283&context=cgu_etd>.

Papacharissi, Z & Mendelson, A 2007, “An Exploratory Study of Reality Appeal: Uses and Gratifications of Reality TV Shows,” Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, pp. 355–370, accessed <https://zizi.people.uic.edu/Site/Research_files/JobemRealityTV.pdf>.

Mast, J 2016, “The Dark Side of Reality TV: Professional Ethics and the Treatment of Reality Show Participants,” International Journal of Communication 10, pp. 2179–2200, accessed <https://ijoc.org/index.php/ijoc/article/viewFile/2444/1646>.