#Digital Citizenship and Software literacy

[capyboba-down-the-rabbit-hole]

6th Stop: The Online Body and The Authentic Self

Many of us have our go-to filters, which serve as digital mirrors reflecting our online lives. As someone who habitually embellishes my photos with filters, I contend that these tools, akin to traditional photo editing, vintage cameras, and carefully staged compositions, offer us the means to craft a visually pleasing narrative of our reality, which also holds authenticity in them.

Defamiliarizing Life Online: La Vie En Rose

The use of photo filters not only enhances the visual appeal of our images but also, as Sontag refers to the portrayal of war imagery, can desensitize us to the mundane aspects of our daily lives (1973, 20). Yet, concurrently, filters present us with images that deviate from the familiar scenes we're accustomed to witnessing.

One reason why filters captivate us is their ability to give images a sense of strangeness, defamiliarizing our everyday existence. Filters steal a little bit of our images; they corporate our vision with what the lens of a machine portrays.

Let me see my life through someone else’s eyes—or, in this case, the unfocused and impartial eye of a machine - Bianca Bosker (2014)

Although Instagram-style filters may initially render our selfies and everyday snapshots unrecognizable, their widespread usage eventually diminishes the effect of defamiliarization, transforming it into a commonplace occurrence. Nevertheless, our everyday photos serve as a means of heightening our personal experiences and giving them special meanings.

In essence, these filtered photos afford ordinary individuals the opportunity to engage in artistic expression—a realm once reserved for professionals due to the intricacies of photography and editing tools such as DSLR cameras and Photoshop. And each photo serves as a narrative that we consciously choose to share.

Platformatization: Finding Authenticity in Filters

Behavior of any kind, even that wholly in accord with societal mores, is authentic if it results from personal understanding and approval of its drives and origins rather than merely from conformity with the received wisdom of society. - Erich Fromm (2011)

Behavior, whether conforming to societal norms or not, is considered authentic by Erich Fromm (2011) if it stems from an individual's personal understanding and endorsement of its underlying motivations and origins, rather than mere conformity to prevailing societal expectations. Fromm views authenticity as a positive result of informed and enlightened motivation, rather than a negative consequence of rejecting societal pressures.

For instance, when selecting a filter for a photo, individuals make subjective choices that reflect their authenticity (Kumar & Madhushree Nanda Agarwal 2023). Consider a woman of color opting for a filter adhering to Western beauty standards. Her choice may signify a desire for societal acceptance, despite the inherent social injustices minorities face. In this context, her selection of a filter becomes a statement about her own experiences and struggles.

Platformization has transformed filters into customizable tools, allowing greater freedom to shape representations that reflect the diversity of our world. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook empower users, predominantly individuals, to design their own filters tailored to their unique needs and authenticity. Today, filter development is just as, if not more, likely to be conducted by a camgirl as it is by hundreds of full-time employees in a campus-sized studio. Skill-based barriers to entry have been eroded by the proliferation of low-cost and easy-to-use software development platforms known as AR toolkits .

These toolkits prioritize the creator's vision over technical expertise, resulting in a diverse range of filters that challenge conventional beauty standards. These filters may explore themes of disempowerment rather than conquest or feature mechanics that promote introspection over agency, thereby expanding the narrative possibilities and contributing to a more inclusive representation of reality.

Indeed, the filtered world we create online may diverge from its natural state, but it remains authentic in its own right. Through the lens of a digital camera, we craft a human-made vision of reality that reflects our perceptions, experiences, and desires. While this digital representation may not mirror the raw world, it nonetheless captures aspects of our inner selves and external surroundings, rendering it authentic in its portrayal of our lived experiences. Our online reality, shaped by filters and digital tools, serves as a unique and valid expression of our individual perspectives and narratives.

Reference

Bosker, B 2014, Hi, My Name Is Bianca And I’ve Already Taken Your Picture, HuffPost, viewed 31 March 2024, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/narrative-clip_n_4760580.

Fromm, E 2011, Escape from freedom, Ishi Press, New York, Tokyo.

Kumar, H & Madhushree Nanda Agarwal 2023, ‘Filtering the reality: Exploring the dark and bright sides of augmented reality–based filters on social media’, Australian Journal of Management, SAGE Publishing.

Rettberg, JW 2014, ‘Filtered Reality’, in Seeing Ourselves Through Technology: How We Use Selfies, Blogs and Wearable Devices to See and Shape Ourselves, Palgrave Macmillan, London, pp. 20–32, viewed 31 March 2024, https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137476661_2.

Sontag, S 1978, On Photography, Allen Lane, London.

[wengdotlam]

Week 9 Digital citizenship and software literacy: Instagram filters

Hey there, digital adventurers! As usual

Welcome to Lam’s Blog! 

Today, I'm talking about the magical world of Instagram filters and how they tie into digital citizenship and software literacy.

What is a filter, and why do people love to use filters?

A filter, particularly a beauty filter, is a feature available in certain apps that can modify photos or videos by overlaying a filter onto the image, altering the appearance of the person or people shown (Opitz 2020). Filters use Augmented Reality (AR) technology, combining virtual elements with real scenes, allowing users to experience a richer reality through devices such as smartphones and tablets. For example, AR technology can add virtual elements to real scenes through the mobile phone camera, allowing users to experience more realistic visual effects, such as selfies with Instagram filters that shape your face to look prettier or even face-swapping with your friends. This is why people say filters can ‘catfish’ others, meaning that people might think you look the same as in your picture, but in reality, you do not. Filters are not only a way for people to present themselves and the real world but also a means to construct themselves and the world (Constructing an imaginary self for others to see is like retouching the self) (Barker 2020).

According to Ryan-Mosley (2021), filters not only enhance the visual appeal of images but also integrate with location-based beautification, making the portrayal of an "ideal life" appear more authentic. People tend to present their best selves using filters, reflecting their desire to be admired. Over time, they become accustomed to these enhanced images, perceiving the illusions created by filters as reasonable and justified.

While filters can be fun, it's essential to remember the line between enhancing and misrepresenting reality. Always strive for authenticity, and be mindful of the message you're sending with heavily altered images. Research by Barker (2020) found that excessive use of beauty filters on platforms like Snapchat and Instagram can lead to unrealistic beauty standards and affect self-esteem and body image. As responsible digital citizens, users should also be aware that certain filters may unintentionally cross the line into cultural appropriation or sensitivity. Pick filters that won't affect or shade other people’s culture because non-verbal communication could misrepresent other cultures, especially in a country like Malaysia with rich cultural diversity.

Furthermore, filters that frequently use facial recognition technologies raise privacy concerns. Ensure you are satisfied with the permissions you are granting and are aware of the privacy consequences. Recent findings emphasize the risks, as hackers now have the capability to steal face scans through fake apps and AI-powered deepfakes. Cybercriminals can steal and misuse sensitive information by creating phony apps that require biometric data, according to Singular Security (2024). This can result in illegal access to secure apps and substantial financial loss.

But people use filters not just to become more beautiful. In an era of competition for attention and constant comparison, “beautification” helps to compete for limited resources such as attention and brings inner spiritual satisfaction and returns of social capital. Filters are a side profile of today’s accelerated society.

For Software Literacy:

Instagram lets users create their own filters by downloading Spark AR Studio. There was a craze for special effects photography. Spark AR Studio is Facebook's (Meta) new AR Studio, allowing you to design personalized AR filters that enhance content with distinctive visual experiences by adding interactive effects to your camera display. Download Spark AR Studio, familiarize yourself with its interface, and start adding and modifying items to get started. After testing your filter, send it to Spark AR Hub for assessment (Marriott 2019). Creating AR filters becomes interesting and approachable with tools like community assistance and introductory tutorials. Gaining proficiency with this tool will improve your social media presence and equip you with valuable AR development abilities that will be in high demand across a range of sectors as AR technology advances (Spark Meta n.d.). Craig (2013) stated that this will also let people learn more and improve their software literacy.

Instagram filters can be useful and a perfect tool to boost your confidence, but they also come with responsibilities. By being a mindful digital citizen and enhancing your software literacy, you can create your ideal filters yourself!

Comment and share what filters you have created and how obsessed you are with Instagram filters!

References 

Barker, J 2020, 'Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat',Intellect， vol. 7, no. 2-3, 2050-0726, pp. 207-221.

Marriott, B 2019, Create an Instagram Filter | Beginner Spark AR Tutorial, 17 October, viewed 6 June 2024, <https://youtu.be/_B0G1jIaxMA?si=2di7ckEH_TAtIp6x>

Opitz, S. C. 2020, ‘BEAUTY FILTERS WHEN BEAUTY IS STANDARDISED’, From Print to Pixel, 5 June, viewed 6 June2024 , <https://www.fromprinttopixel.ch/en/my-networked-images/beauty-filter>.

Ryan-Mosley, T 2021, Beauty Filters Are Changing the Way Young Girls See Themselves, MIT Technology Review, 2 April, viewed 6 June 2024, <https://www.technologyreview.com/2021/04/02/1021635/beauty-filters-young-girls-augmented-reality-social-media/.>

Singular Security 2024,Hackers Can Now Steal Face Scans, singularsecurity.com, 7May, viewed 6 June 2024, <https://www.singularsecurity.com/2024/05/07/hackers-can-now-steal-face-scans/>.

Spark.meta n.d.,  Meta Spark Studio - Create Immersive AR Experiences, spark.meta.com, viewed 6 June 2024,

<https://spark.meta.com/.>

‌PewDiePie 2019, We need to STOP INSTAGRAM Filters!, 31 October, viewed 6 June 2024,

<https://youtu.be/SsHGYhWpXZM?si=-lTv5_5NkoWHelj5>

[nguyenminhphuc]

Week 8 - Does filters change anything beyond your looks on social media?

Ever since photo editing or widely known as photoshop became a thing, the looks of models and celebrities have been significantly edited to enhance their looks and attract customers for magazines and advertisements. Over time, these features become more accessible to the general public and become everyday life entertainment. Face filters was first introduced in September of 2015 by Snapchat, the filters have progressed from a kind of silly entertainment, such as animal-like face coverings, to more severe changes of people's appearance to correspond to contemporary beauty standards (Barker, 2020). These trends have caused new social concerns that are harming people's mental health and well-being.

The increasing usage of social media filters to change someone's look is controversial among experts and consumers alike. It can be deemed innocent or as easy as "identity work, play, and self-exploration" (Lavrence & Cambre, 2020). With the advancement of face recognition software, image-sharing apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok enable users to see bodily alterations on their smartphone displays. They can be as transient and subtle as wearing cosmetics or hair accessories, or they can be much more permanent, such as using hair color, piercings, or even cosmetic surgery.

While the widespread usage of social media is undeniable, there appears to be a parallel increase in the number of cosmetic treatments performed on young people (Walker et al., 2019). According to cosmetic doctors such as Tijion Esho, while patients used to bring in photos of celebrities that they wished to emulate in their physical appearance, they now regularly bring in photos of themselves (Hunt, 2019), frequently with "fuller lips, bigger eyes, or a thinner nose" which is trendy for women’s beauty standard at the moment, and so visible in the filters (Panagiotis Milothridis, 2020).

This is a concern for several reasons. For example, research in 2017 indicated that consumers only noticed a photo was modified 60–65% of the time (Hunt 2019). Editing photographs on social media might lead to "unrealistic expectations of what is normal" and decrease self-esteem in individuals who do not utilize or identify these editing methods (Hunt 2019). Second, while filters and selfie editing have no intrinsic effect on a person, it is obvious that they are prompting people to seek cosmetic procedures such as fillers, botox, or plastic surgery. Over a period of time, people involved with the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery have been interviewed. In 2015, 42% of surgeons said that patients were motivated to appear better in photographs (Milothridis 2020). This figure has increased, with 55% reporting in 2017 (Milothridis 2020), 75% in 2019 (American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2021), and 77% in 2021 (2021 Statistics & Trends Released, 2022).

I am certain that the use of filters without disclosure may be damaging, particularly for celebrities who contribute to an elevated beauty standard without disclosing their use of filters. However, I enjoy how applications like TikTok and Instagram now notify users when filters have been applied (TikTok 2023; Ahmed 2021). I am opposed to the usage of invisible filters, and I feel that openness is critical in combating the continuance of such unattainable beauty standards.  

Reference:

American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. (2021, February 1). American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. https://www.aafprs.org/Media/Press_Releases/New%20Stats%20AAFPRS%20Annual%20Survey.aspx

Barker, J. (2020). Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat. Fashion, Style & Popular Culture, 7(2), 207–221. https://doi.org/10.1386/fspc_00015_1

Hunt, E. (2019, January 23). Faking it: How Selfie Dysmorphia Is Driving People to Seek Surgery. The Guardian; The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/jan/23/faking-it-how-selfie-dysmorphia-is-driving-people-to-seek-surgery

Lavrence, C., & Cambre, C. (2020). “Do I Look Like My Selfie?”: Filters and the Digital-Forensic Gaze. Social Media + Society, 6(4), 205630512095518. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305120955182

Panagiotis Milothridis. (2020). The Elective Nature of Cosmetic Medicine. Springer EBooks, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-44725-0_1

Walker, C. E., Krumhuber, E. G., Dayan, S., & Furnham, A. (2019). Effects of Social Media Use on Desire for Cosmetic Surgery among Young Women. Current Psychology, 40(7), 3355–3364. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-019-00282-1

[heppimate]

Instagram Face: Why Everyone Is Starting to Look the Same?

Let’s play a game. Open Instagram. Scroll five selfies. I bet at least three of them look eerily similar: High cheekbones. Snatched jawline. Pouty lips. Smooth glassy skin. Catlike almond eyes. Perfectly arched brows.

Congrats! you’ve just spotted the “Instagram Face.” It’s beautiful. It’s flawless. It’s also... everywhere ;( But how did we get here? Why are different people, across cultures and continents, chasing the same face? Let’s filter this out 🧠

Filtered Reality, Literally

As Rettberg (2014) explains, filters don’t just tweak your lighting: they reshape your reality. Instagram and Snapchat filters nudge users toward aesthetic norms that the algorithm (and culture) favors: thinner noses, bigger eyes, and smoother skin. Over time, users internalize these enhancements as the new baseline.

You’re not just beautifying. You’re editing yourself into the algorithm’s idea of hot. And when millions of people do the same thing? Boom: beauty homogenization.

From FaceTune to Facelift

Enter Coy-Dibley’s (2016) idea of digitized dysmorphia - where people become obsessed with their filtered face to the point they want to look like it IRL. Think: fillers, buccal fat removal, and the rise of “Snapchat dysmorphia.”

TikTok’s “Bold Glamour” filter sparked a wave of creators saying, “Why don’t I look like this in real life?” You don’t... because no one does.

If Everyone’s Hot, Then Who’s Boring?

The "Instagram Face" creates an illusion of diversity while reinforcing a singular, Westernized beauty ideal. Coy-Dibley (2016) and Rettberg (2017) both point out how platforms offer a “menu” of desirable traits, but the defaults tend to align with whiteness, thinness, and femininity. It’s not just aesthetic - it’s political. Filters erase features, flatten cultural identity, and promote beauty colonialism in digital form.

Software Literacy: Know Your Filter

If we don’t understand how filters shape our self-image, we can’t resist them. This is where software literacy and digital citizenship come in. Choi & Cristol (2021) argue that being a good digital citizen means being critical of the tools we use - especially the ones that quietly train us to hate our unfiltered selves.

Final Thought

Instagram Face didn’t just “happen.” It was built, coded, tested, and normalized. And while filters can be fun and creative, they’re also ideological machines, shaping how we see beauty - and ourselves.

So next time you reach for that beauty filter, ask yourself: Are you enhancing… or erasing?

Seen any wild “Instagram Face” trends lately? Or have a favorite creator who keeps it beautifully unfiltered? Drop it in the tags. Let’s celebrate faces that aren’t factory settings.

References

Choi, M., & Cristol, D. (2021). Digital citizenship with intersectionality lens: Towards participatory democracy driven digital citizenship education. Theory Into Practice, 60(4), 361–370. https://doi.org/10.1080/00405841.2021.1987094

Coy-Dibley, I. (2016). ‘Digitized dysmorphia of the female body: The re/disfigurement of the image’. Continuum: Journal of Media & Cultural Studies, 30(2), 126–138. https://doi.org/10.1080/10304312.2016.1141868

Rettberg, J. W. (2014). Seeing Ourselves Through Technology: How We Use Selfies, Blogs and Wearable Devices to See and Shape Ourselves. Palgrave Macmillan.

Rettberg, J. W. (2017). Biometric citizens. In A. T. Kenney, M. D. Witmer, & A. J. Tinkcom (Eds.), Theories of the Mobile Internet (pp. 123–138). Routledge.

[dearsuzenblog]

Instagram Filters with Selena Gomez🤳🏼

WEEK 9 - Software Literacy: Instagram Filters

Hey hey hey, my fellow bloggie peeps ✨

Guess who's back with another blog post? That's right, it's me! 🩷

I’m back with another fabulous blog post, and today, we’re diving into the world of digital citizenship and software literacy through the lens of none other than the Instagram Queen herself—Selena Gomez!

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐍 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌 𝐐𝐔𝐄𝐄𝐍

Selena Gomez isn’t just a superstar in the music and film industry; she’s also a powerhouse on social media, particularly Instagram. With millions of followers hanging on to her every post, Selena has mastered the art of digital citizenship and software literacy, especially when it comes to using Instagram filters to enhance her influence.

Selena Gomez has been in the public eye since her Disney days, but her reign as the Instagram Queen truly began when she embraced the platform to connect with her fans in a more personal and authentic way. Her posts are a blend of professional shots, candid moments, and everything in between, showing her versatility and relatability (Joyce 2023).

But what makes Selena’s Instagram presence so impactful? A big part of it is her savvy use of Instagram filters. These filters aren’t just fun; they’re powerful tools that can shape perceptions, set trends, and boost engagement.

𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐌 𝐅𝐈𝐋𝐓𝐄𝐑��

Selena uses Instagram filters to their full potential, creating visually stunning and cohesive feeds that keep her followers coming back for more. Whether it’s the dreamy glow of a vintage filter, the vibrant pop of color from a high-contrast filter, or the subtle enhancements of a natural filter, Selena knows exactly how to make her photos stand out.

Filters can do more than just beautify an image—they can convey a mood, tell a story, and even create a brand identity. Selena’s consistent filter choices help her maintain a recognizable and appealing aesthetic that resonates with her audience (Rees 2017).

𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐋𝐔𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐄𝐃𝐈𝐀 𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘

Selena Gomez’s mastery of Instagram filters isn’t just about looking good; it’s about influencing the media industry in a big way. By setting trends with her filtered photos, she’s able to guide her followers’ tastes and preferences. Brands and influencers often look to her for inspiration, mimicking her style to tap into her massive appeal.

Her influence extends beyond Instagram, affecting how visual media is consumed and created. The filters she uses can inspire entire marketing campaigns, product launches, and fashion trends. When Selena posts, the world listens—and they learn (Powell 2016).

Selena Gomez is a shining example of how to harness the power of Instagram filters to build a personal brand, influence the media industry, and connect with a global audience. Her savvy use of these tools showcases the importance of digital citizenship and software literacy in today’s social media-driven world (Brown & Tiggemann 2020).

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐏𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘

One of the most powerful aspects of Selena’s Instagram presence is her authenticity. She doesn’t just use filters to hide flaws; she uses them to enhance her reality. By sharing moments of vulnerability alongside her polished posts, she creates a genuine connection with her audience. This balance of authenticity and artistry is what makes her a true digital citizen and a role model in software literacy.

In summary, I personally feel that Selena Gomez is a shining example of how to harness the power of Instagram filters to build a personal brand, influence the media industry, and connect with a global audience. Her savvy use of these tools showcases the importance of digital citizenship and software literacy in today’s social media-driven world.

So, next time you’re scrolling through Instagram and come across one of Selena’s perfectly filtered posts, remember that there’s more to it than meets the eye. It’s a masterclass in digital influence, brought to you by the one and only Instagram Queen.

Keep snapping, filtering, and shining, my peeps! 💖

Stay tuned for more insightful posts, and as always, keep expressing yourself and exploring the digital world! ✨

Love, Zen 🌸

REFERENCES

Brown, Z & Tiggemann, M 2020, ‘A picture is worth a thousand words: The effect of viewing celebrity Instagram images with disclaimer and body positive captions on women’s body image’, Body Image, vol. 33, no. 33, pp. 190–198.

Joyce, JA 2023, The Social Protests of 2020: Visceral Responses to Police Brutality, COVID-19, and Circumscribed Sexuality, Google Books, Rowman & Littlefield, viewed 17 June 2024, https://books.google.com.my/books?hl=en&lr=&id=F83DEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PA125&dq=selena+gomez+instagram+filters+&ots=UEFsnkJjNj&sig=Vd4LPWUBfzx9yfxji7C19OtswOE&redir_esc=y#v=onepage&q&f=false.

Powell, M 2016, ‘A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words: A Content Analysis of Self-Inflicted Face-ism on Instagram’.

‌Rees, J 2017, An examination of ways that three self-identified feminists feel empowered through Instagram, www.ideals.illinois.edu, viewed 17 June 2024, <https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/items/106965>.

[reginaisakiddo]

ALLYNA ORBITA 9MORGANITE

📌MY APOLOGIES FOR THE BAD QUALITY.

KINDLY CLICK THE LINK FOR A MORE CLEARER AND READABLE PICTURE

QUESTION:

"How can you observe Social, Ethical, and Legal Responsibilities in the use of technology tool and resources?

To observe social ethical and legal responsibilities with the use of technology we need to have a proper netiquette. But first what is "NETIQUETTE". Netiquette is the correct or acceptable way in communicating on the internet or the proper usage of the internet. Some examples are,

Respecting privacy-Safeguard personal information and respect the privacy of individuals. Use encryption, secure storage, and proper access controls to protect sensitive data.

Use technology responsibly- Ensuring that technology tools and resources are used for legitimate and legal purposes. Avoid using technology to engage in illegal activities, such as hacking, piracy, or spreading harmful content.

Considering the impact on society- Assess the potential social implications of technology use. Take into account how it may affect individuals, communities, or society as a whole. Strive to use technology in a way that promotes inclusivity, fairness, and social good.

Promoting digital literacy and education -Encourage responsible use of technology by promoting digital literacy and educating users about ethical considerations. Teach individuals about online safety, cybersecurity, and responsible digital citizenship.

Respecting intellectual property-Follow copyright laws and respect intellectual property rights when using technology tools and resources. Avoid plagiarism, piracy, or unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials.

Being transparent and honest-Provide accurate information and be transparent about the use of technology tools and resources. Avoid spreading misinformation or engaging in deceptive practices.

Stay updated with regulations and laws -Stay informed about relevant laws and regulations related to technology use. Comply with legal requirements, such as data protection, privacy regulations, and intellectual property laws.

Engaging in ethical decision-making - When facing ethical dilemmas related to technology, consider the potential consequences and impact on stakeholders. Strive to make informed and ethical decisions that prioritize the well-being of individuals and society.

By following these guidelines/netiquette, you can ensure that your use of technology tools and resources aligns with social, ethical, and legal responsibilities

[psdontgetdegrees]

Now I'm building up some real speed! | Week 8: Digital Citizenship and Software literacy: Instagram Filters

This week’s summary is a bit more out of my comfort zone. I don't really have much of an opinion on the topic and I've never really thought about it. It’s gonna be a bit tricky for me to formulate an opinion, but I also think it's exciting because it means I get to learn something new about the things I love the most. I hope you like what I have to say!

This week’s reading is on Digital Citizenship and Software literacy: Instagram Filters

With media becoming more and more “instantly attainable for the masses” (Barker, 2020 p. 207) so too does the ability for the public to control their image online. “Face Filters” as Barker describes it “enables users to incorporate augmented reality technology” (Barker, 2020 p. 207) into their everyday mundane life. The problem however is with the “face-perfecting filters” (Barker, 2020 p. 207) which have the intention to make someone ‘prettier’ and better looking than how they are when taking the photo. This creates a negative perception of self-image after the filter is taken away. Reader’s digest has compiled the best looking filters for your face, with the “beautiful face” filter being among one of the best by giving you “a natural glow” that “we’ve all dreamed of” (Reader’s Digest, 2022). Barker comes to the conclusion that the snapchat beautifying filters have a “problematic nature” (Barker, 2020 p. 209) and have the potential to cause serious self-image harm to young individuals still developing their self worth. 

Additionally, author Rettberg takes a look at the way filters can make our photos and therefore our lives seem “brighter [than real life]” (Rettberg, 2014 p. 21). The “Instagram-style filters”, make our perception of everyday life appear “unfamiliar”, it starts to fade our perception of the “defamiliarization effect”. What does that mean? It means that the world that we start to portray using these filters has begun to wear off as more and more people use the filters in their everyday life, and that leads to the negative effect that Barker touched on; Once the filters are applied, those who use them feel unstoppable. That is until other users realize it's a filter and get defamiliarized with it, leading to a decrease in adoration for the images using these filters. This ultimately leads to the original user coming back to square one, feeling distraught at the idea that their self-image isn't good eno8gh to portray to the world

In the grand scheme of the modern media landscape, there are filters that poke fun at certain political figures, create memes and make others laugh. When it comes to beauty filters, the whole idea relates to last week's analysis, where body modification is prevalent in younger and younger audiences leading to confidence and self-image problems as these users become adults.

This Article is such a good read if you feel like you need a little more: https://www.mamamia.com.au/instagram-filters-confidence/

References:

Barker, J 2020, Making-up on mobile : The pretty filters and ugly implications of Snapchat, Bristol : Intellect.

Reader’s Digest, 2022, “Best instagram beauty filters in 2022”, Reader’s Digest, 3 July, Viewed 6 May 2023

&lt;https://www.readersdigest.co.uk/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/best-instagram-beauty-filters-in-2022>

Rettberg, JW 2014, ‘Filtered Reality’, Seeing Ourselves Through Technology, Palgrave Macmillan Limited, United Kingdom.

[footfungus96-blog]

Filters turning scary...

Week 8: Digital Citizenship and Software Literacy: Instagram Filters

Let’s be real - we’ve all slapped a Valencia filter on a selfie to make our brunch pics look ~aesthetic~ or used a smoothing tool to erase that rogue pimple. Filters feel harmless, right? Like digital makeup for our insecurities. But what if these tools aren’t just enhancing our reality… they’re rewriting it?

Your face is data now. Apps like Instagram and Snapchat don’t just “beautify” your selfies - they scan them. Every time you line up your eyes with Snapchat’s biometric grid to vomit rainbows 🦄, you’re training algorithms to map faces as machine-readable objects. Jill Walker Rettberg calls this “biometric citizenship”: your selfies become ID cards for surveillance, ads, and even payment systems (think MasterCard’s creepy “blink-to-pay” tech). Your face isn’t yours anymore - it’s a barcode.

Filters aren’t neutral. They’re coded with bias. Remember when early film couldn’t capture darker skin tones unless white faces were the default? Instagram’s filters inherit that legacy. Syreeta McFadden writes how cameras still struggle with Black skin, forcing marginalized users to DIY their own selfies to feel seen. Even “fun” filters like “bold glamour” push Eurocentric beauty ideals - slim noses, poreless skin - as default. It’s digital dysmorphia: editing ourselves into clones of a homogenous “ideal” (Coy-Dibley 2016).

The scariest part? We’re complicit. We volunteer for this. We tweak our jaws, brighten our eyes, and serve our faces to apps that profit off our insecurities. Rettberg warns this isn’t just vanity - it’s “post-optical” control. Filters train us to see ourselves through machines, flattening humanity into data points. Want to post a raw, unfiltered photo? Good luck competing with algorithm-friendly perfection.

Digital citizenship means pushing back. Software literacy isn’t just coding - it’s questioning why filters exist. Who benefits when we hate our real skin? Who profits when our selfies feed AI? Next time you reach for that filter, ask: Am I expressing myself… or obeying a script?

References

Rettberg, J W 2014, 'Filtered reality', Seeing ourselves through technology: how we use selfies, blogs and wearable devices to see and shape ourselves, Palgrave Macmillan, London , https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137476661_2.

Rettberg, J W 2017, 'Biometric citizens: adapting our selfies to machine vision', in A Kuntsman (ed.), Selfie citizenship, Palgrave Macmillan, Cham, https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-45270-8_10.

Coy-Dibley, I 2016, '“Digitised dysmorphia” of the female body: the re/disfigurement of the image', Palgrave Communications, vol. 2, article no. 16040, https://doi.org/10.1057/palcomms.2016.40.

[sshirotalk]

WEEK 8: Digital Citizenship and Software Literacy: The Cultural Politics of Instagram Filters

With over 700 million users engaging with AR filters monthly on Meta platforms, filters are no longer just playful tools—they have become a fundamental part of how we construct identity online. But as someone who frequently uses social media, I often ask myself: Are filters helping me creatively express myself, or are they quietly disciplining me into conforming to algorithm-driven beauty standards?

GIF by sustancy

Digital Citizens and Internalized Surveillance

As Choi and Cristol (2021) argue, digital citizenship today requires software literacy—the ability to recognize how technologies like filters shape our digital identities and data practices. Personally, I’ve noticed how filters now “automatically” beautify my face according to platform trends. Sometimes, I forget what my face really looks like without digital enhancement.

Rettberg (2017) points out that AR filters normalize facial recognition, training users and platforms alike to accept face-scanning as routine. This reminds me of Foucault’s (1977) Panopticism, where individuals self-regulate under invisible surveillance. Adjusting my selfies to fit the "Instagram standard" feels like this modern panopticon at play.

GIF by cleopatrachampagne

Self-Objectification and Everyday Filtering

Fredrickson & Roberts (1997) argue that women are particularly vulnerable to self-objectification when constantly viewing themselves through external, social lenses. I resonate with this—sometimes I feel dissatisfied with my unfiltered self compared to my “filtered” self on social media.

Barker (2020) discusses how filters promote “algorithmic aesthetics”, privileging Eurocentric beauty ideals like smooth skin, large eyes, and smaller noses. Coy-Dibley (2016) terms this effect “digitized dysmorphia,” where filters distort users’ perceptions of their real bodies. Personally, I’ve grown so accustomed to subtle filter enhancements that my natural appearance sometimes feels “off” or less polished. This "ambient filtering" effect, as Barker describes, gradually shifts our baseline for what “normal” looks like.

Surveillance Culture and Beauty Standards

I’ve also found myself engaging in what Lavrence & Cambre (2020) describe as the “digital-forensic gaze”—scrutinizing others' photos to see if they’ve been filtered. This contributes to a beauty surveillance culture where we not only self-police but also monitor others’ appearances.

The rise of “Snapchat Dysmorphia” (Rajanala, Maymone & Vashi, 2018), where people seek cosmetic surgery to match their filtered selves, illustrates how digital beauty standards spill over into real life. Even though Instagram banned plastic surgery filters in 2019, subtle “beautifying” filters still dominate—and I see them everywhere.

Beyond Beauty: Filters, Biometric Surveillance, and Data Extraction

Filters are not just tools for self-expression; they also function as data collection mechanisms. Rettberg (2017) warns that filters prime users for biometric tracking, normalizing face scanning and algorithmic surveillance. While platforms present AR filters as harmless entertainment, they simultaneously collect vast amounts of facial data, raising concerns about privacy and digital rights. The integration of beauty filters into commercial applications, such as AliPay’s face-scan payment system, highlights how digital self-representation is increasingly intertwined with biometric verification.

Conclusion: The Future of AR Filters and Digital Citizenship

The widespread adoption of AR filters raises essential questions about digital identity, beauty norms, and privacy. Are we freely expressing ourselves, or are we subtly being shaped by algorithmic aesthetics? The tension between empowerment and surveillance, self-expression and commercialization, remains central to the debate on AR filters. As digital citizens, we must critically engage with these tools, advocating for greater transparency in platform governance and algorithmic decision-making.

💡 Questions to Consider:

Do AR filters expand creative self-expression, or do they impose new beauty standards?

Should platforms regulate beauty filters more strictly to prevent body dysmorphia?

How can users push back against the biometric tracking embedded in AR technology?

📌 Let’s discuss! Do you think filters empower or manipulate digital self-representation? Comment below!

References:

Barker, J. (2020). Making up on mobile: The pretty and ugly implications of Snapchat filters. Fashion, Style & Popular Culture, 7, 207-221. https://doi.org/10.1386/fspc_00015_1

Choi, M., & Cristol, D. (2021). Digital citizenship with an intersectionality lens: Towards participatory democracy-driven digital citizenship education. Theory into Practice, 60(4), 361–370.

Coy-Dibley, I. (2016). “Digitised Dysmorphia” of the Female Body: The Re/Disfigurement of the Image. Palgrave Communications, 2, 16040. https://doi.org/10.1057/palcomms.2016.40

Foucault, M. (1977). Discipline and Punish: The Birth of the Prison. Pantheon Books.

Fredrickson, B. L., & Roberts, T. A. (1997). Objectification theory: Toward understanding women's lived experiences and mental health risks. Psychology of Women Quarterly, 21(2), 173-206.

Lavrence, C., & Cambre, C. (2020). “Do I look like my selfie?” Filters and the digital-forensic gaze. Visual Communication Research.

Rajanala, S., Maymone, M. B. C., & Vashi, N. A. (2018). Selfies—Living in the Era of Filtered Photographs. JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, 20(6), 443-444. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamafacial.2018.0486

[quang1234]

WEEK 8:Digital Citizenship and Instagram Filters: Navigating Identity in a Filtered World

In an era dominated by visual social media, Instagram filters—a form of virtual body modification—prompt critical discussions about digital citizenship and the responsibilities of users and platforms alike. These filters, which enhance photos by altering skin tone, removing blemishes, or exaggerating facial features, play a significant role in how individuals curate and present themselves online. Examining this practice through the lens of digital citizenship and software literacy highlights its impact on societal beauty standards, mental health, and authenticity.

The Social and Psychological Effects of Filters

Research illustrates the complex relationship between filters and self-perception. Studies by Tiggemann and Slater (2014) suggest that the frequent use of filters contributes to increased body dissatisfaction and distorted self-image, especially among young individuals. Filters often set unattainable standards of beauty, perpetuated by social media algorithms that promote heavily curated content. The pressure to conform to these ideals not only distorts reality but also affects mental health, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a loss of authenticity.

Filters are more than just playful tools—they reflect societal values and norms about beauty and identity. This duality poses significant questions for digital citizenship: Are users critically engaging with how filters shape their perceptions? Are platforms considering the ethical ramifications of endorsing filtered content that reinforces unrealistic standards?

Linking to Software Literacy and Health Education

The concept of software literacy—understanding and critically engaging with digital tools—is integral to navigating the filter phenomenon. By improving software literacy, users can recognize how filters and algorithms manipulate their online experience, empowering them to make more informed choices. Similarly, integrating health education principles fosters a healthier relationship with social media. Efforts to educate users about the psychological effects of filters can encourage critical consumption and promote authenticity in digital spaces.

Health promotion initiatives that combine digital citizenship education and body positivity campaigns can further empower users. For instance, community-driven movements can create environments where individuals feel supported to challenge conventional beauty ideals and celebrate diversity.

Examples of Counter-Movements and Influences

The #NoFilter movement has emerged as a powerful response to the dominance of filtered images. Advocating for unaltered, authentic representations, this movement inspires individuals to embrace their natural selves and reject societal pressures. Research by Harrison and Hefner (2014) confirms that such campaigns can positively impact self-image and foster healthier digital interactions.

Conversely, the influence of beauty-focused content creators often reinforces the allure of filters and editing tools. Prominent figures, such as NikkieTutorials, showcase the creative possibilities of filters but also highlight the tension between artistic expression and the responsibility to promote realistic ideals. This contrast emphasizes the need for users and creators to engage thoughtfully with the content they produce and consume.

Conclusion

The widespread use of Instagram filters illustrates the intersection of personal identity, technology, and societal values. By encouraging critical engagement with these tools, fostering software literacy, and promoting health education, users can cultivate a more balanced and authentic digital presence. This approach not only enhances individual well-being but also contributes to a digital culture that values diversity and self-acceptance over curated perfection.

REFERENCES: Tiggemann, M., & Slater, A. (2013). NetGirls: The Internet, Facebook, and Body Image Concern in Adolescent Girls. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 46(6), 630–633. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.22141 Harrison, K., & Hefner, V. (2006). Media Exposure, Current and Future Body Ideals, and Disordered Eating Among Preadolescent Girls: A Longitudinal Panel Study. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 35(2), 146–156. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964-005-9008-3 Zuckerman, E. (2019). The case for digital public infrastructure. Journal of Communication, 69(5), 361–378 https://www.journalismliberty.org/s/zuckerman-digital-infrastructure-cjl-nov2020.pdf McLeroy, K. R., Bibeau, D., Steckler, A., & Glanz, K. (1988). An Ecological Perspective on Health Promotion Programs. Health Education Quarterly, 15(4), 351–377. https://doi.org/10.1177/109019818801500401

[hothaonhi]

How Instagram is Shaping Beauty, Identity, and Data

Put a finger down if...

Put a finger down if you’ve ever spent the whole day editing your Instagram selfie. ✋ Put a finger down if you’ve tried ten different filters before settling on the "natural" one. ✋ Put a finger down if you’ve thought, Wow, I look so much better with this filter on… ✋

Yeah, same here.

Instagram filters have become a digital beauty standard, an unspoken rule of social media that says your face, as it is, just isn’t enough. But what if I told you that these "harmless" filters are actually shaping the way we see ourselves, reinforcing outdated beauty standards, and even training AI to recognize and rank our faces? (It actually sounds kinda scary)

Anyway, welcome to the world of digital citizenship and software literacy, where the filters we use are doing way more than just smoothing our skin.

What you're likely witnessing is the pervasive power of Instagram filters, a seemingly simple feature that belies a complex intersection of digital citizenship and software literacy (Barker, 2020, p.207). These aren't just whimsical overlays; they're shaping how we see ourselves, how we present ourselves, and even how machines interpret our very identities. 

What's the Filter Actually Doing?

Filter refers to the tool that allows selfie takers to enhance their photos easily, without needing professional editing software (Hong et al., 2020, Excessive self-presentation). They can adjust colors, modify lighting, or add digital overlays like flower crowns, animal features, or bright, exaggerated eyes, all designed to make selfies more visually appealing (Hong et al., 2020, Excessive self-presentation). On the surface, engaging with Instagram filters is a prime example of software literacy. This means we're actively using an application that employs pre-programmed algorithms to manipulate our images (Rettberg, 2014, p.21). Jill Walker Rettberg, in "Filtered Reality," offers a broader perspective, defining a "filter" as a technological, cultural, or cognitive mechanism that removes, alters, or distorts content (Rettberg, 2014, p.22). Instagram filters embody this, going beyond mere aesthetics to potentially erase perceived "flaws" or impose a particular "style".

The Critical Angle: Unpacking the Algorithmic Influence

However, true digital citizenship demands we move beyond simply knowing how to apply a filter and instead critically analyze why we use them and what impact they have (Barker, 2020, p.209). Barker's research raises crucial questions about the "problematic nature of Snapchat’s beautifying filters," many of which share similar functionalities with Instagram filters (Barker, 2020, pp. 208-209). She highlights how these filters often promote narrow, exclusionary beauty standards by algorithms that slim jawlines and noses, enlarge eyes and lips, and smooth and lighten skin complexions (Barker, 2020, p.207). She also mentioned the term "digital adornment" - a way users experiment with creativity and self-expression in the digital realm, akin to using cosmetics or clothing (Barker, 2020, p.208). This can lead users, like Emily Arata, to question their natural appearance and feel that only the filtered version is presentable (Barker, 2020, p.208).

Rettberg’s concept of "Biometric Citizens" adds a crucial dimension to this analysis. She argues that our filtered selfies are not solely for human eyes but are increasingly processed as data by machines for purposes like facial recognition (Rettberg, 2017, p.89). Consider Instagram's augmented reality filters that overlay animal ears or virtual makeup; these rely on sophisticated facial detection technology, creating a biometric grid on our faces to ensure the digital elements move with us  (Rettberg, 2017, p.93). As Rettberg points out in the context of Snapchat lenses, this normalizes the idea of our faces being constantly read by machines.

The connection between Barker's "digital adornment" and Rettberg's "biometric citizen" is striking. The very software that enables us to playfully alter our appearance for self-expression simultaneously turns our faces into a set of data points for algorithmic consumption (Barker, 2020, p.207). When we use an Instagram filter that subtly contours our face or brightens our eyes, we are not only engaging in a form of digital self-fashioning but also providing a specific dataset that aligns with certain beauty ideals that can be recognized and categorized by machine vision (Barker, 2020, p.209).

The problem of Instagram Filters

The Issue of Skin Tone: A particularly troubling aspect, highlighted by both Barker and Rettberg, is the tendency of some filters to lighten skin tones (Barker, 2020, p.214). This reinforces the "cultural biases" embedded in technology that assert lighter skin as more desirable  (Barker, 2020, p.214). This demonstrates how seemingly innocuous software features can perpetuate harmful and racist beauty standards. Rettberg's discussion of the historical "skin tone bias in photography" further contextualizes this issue, showing how technological filters have long been calibrated for lighter skin, leading to the misrepresentation of people with darker complexions (Rettberg, 2014, p.28).

Gender Stereotypes in Filters: The problematic International Women's Day filters on Snapchat, as reported by Julia Carrie Wong, offer another critical example. The filter honoring Marie Curie, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist, applied "smoky eye makeup and lengthen[ed] the eye lashes" (Barker, 2020, p.213). This sparked outrage, with users questioning if "Marie Curie invent[ed] smokey eye then?" and highlighting the absurdity of sexualizing a renowned scientist with a beauty filter (Barker, 2020, p.213). This illustrates how software design can inadvertently reinforce outdated and harmful gender stereotypes (Barker, 2020, p.209).

Towards Responsible Digital Citizenship

Understanding the mechanics and implications of Instagram filters is crucial for responsible digital citizenship. We must critically evaluate the beauty standards promoted by filters by recognizing that these are often narrow, commercially driven, and can be racially biased. We must also be aware of the potential impact on self-esteem and body image, since constant exposure to filtered images, including our own, can contribute to dissatisfaction with our natural appearance.

References

Barker, J. (2020). Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of snapchat. Fashion, Style & Popular Culture, 7(2), 207–221. https://doi.org/10.1386/fspc_00015_1

Hong, S., Jahng, M. R., Lee, N., & Wise, K. R. (2020). Do you filter who you are?: Excessive self-presentation, social cues, and user evaluations of Instagram selfies. Computers in Human Behavior, 104, 106159. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2019.106159

Rettberg, J. W. (2014). Filtered Reality. Seeing Ourselves through Technology, 20–32. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137476661_2

Rettberg, J. W. (2017). Biometric Citizens: Adapting Our Selfies to Machine Vision. Springer EBooks, 89–96. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-45270-8_10

softgothbabe. (2024, September 10). Post by @softgothbabe | 3 images. Tumblr. https://www.tumblr.com/softgothbabe/761239788984713217/lovergirl-to-my-core

softpine. (2023, October 24). Post by @softpine | 3 images. Tumblr. https://www.tumblr.com/softpine/732090617926238208/idk-man-im-not-one-of-those-people-who-thinks

[onyourmlinh]

Week 8: Digital Citizenship and Software literacy: Instagram Filters

Being a responsible digital citizen and developing software literacy skills are essential for people to navigate the online world effectively in the digital age. An essential part of digital citizenship is understanding and making use of augmented reality (AR) filters, which have become increasingly popular on social media sites like Instagram. This post will examine Instagram filters, their impact on digital citizenship, the future of augmented reality filters, and possible ways to use them responsibly.

Augmented Reality (AR) filters

Often referred to as AR filters, augmented reality filters are digital overlays that alter or improve a user's surroundings or appearance in real time. These filters have a big impact on how people show themselves and interact with others since they can change appearances, add virtual items, or produce artistic effects. According to research, young individuals are especially fond of AR filters, which they use to create their online personas and improve their creative expression (Zachry & Sinlapanuntakul 2024). These filters are becoming more and more popular every day, in conjunction with the quick growth of smart electronic devices. The potential of AR filters as a communications and engagement tool is highlighted by a recent Deloitte (2021) analysis that predicted 2.2 billion people would be regular AR users on social media by 2022 and that Snapchat users take over 4.5 billion AR images and/or videos every day.

AR filters on Instagram

Instagram AR filters are computer-generated effects that combine digital components on real-world photos taken with a user's camera. Since their introduction in 2017, these filters—which let users add effects like virtual makeup, accessories, and animations to their images and videos—have grown in popularity on Instagram Stories and Reels (Ruslanbekova 2023). AR filters are a creative and interactive approach for brands and people to communicate with their audience. Brands can, for instance, design custom filters that showcase their own aesthetic and messaging, which can boost follower engagement and brand awareness. Additionally, users can design and test customized AR filters with Meta Spark Studio.

Effects 

Users are affected by AR filters in a variety of ways, both positively and negatively. Positively, they increase user engagement by adding entertainment and interaction to the material. More time spent on platforms and more user retention may result from this enhanced interaction (Johnson 2024). Additionally, AR filters enable customisation, allowing users to creatively alter their surroundings or look, which can foster creativity and self-expression. 

But there are possible drawbacks as well. AR filters can affect psychological well-being, self-esteem, and body image, particularly those that change physical appearance. These filters may momentarily increase confidence for people with low self-esteem, but they can occasionally cause people with strong self-esteem to feel bad about their actual appearance (Javornik et al. 2021). Furthermore, the use of AR filters to promote unattainable beauty standards could worsen mental health problems and body dissatisfaction. This may lead to worries about unachievable beauty standards, failed plastic surgeries issues with body image and the persistence of unfavorable stereotypes.

The future of AR filters and possible ways to use them responsibly

AR filters have a very bright future ahead of them, with developments anticipated to make them even more realistic and immersive. Filters may provide interactive learning opportunities, incredibly lifelike virtual try-ons for clothes and makeup, and even mental health applications like visual-effects guided meditation as augmented reality technology develops. To guarantee that AR filters don't contribute to false information, unattainable beauty standards, or data privacy issues, careful use is essential. By encouraging varied representations and properly identifying modified content, platforms and producers may demonstrate their commitment to accessibility, ethical design, and inclusivity. AR filters should also be created with user consent and data security in mind, making sure that tracking and facial recognition technologies don't violate privacy. AR filters can improve digital interactions while upholding inclusion and trust in virtual worlds by striking a balance between innovation and ethical issues.

References

Deloitte 2021, Snap Consumer AR Global, pp. 1–74, viewed 7 March 2025, <https://downloads.ctfassets.net/inb32lme5009/hSj5P9vzaox79vlTqXZfj/d6094404212f1327e8b7d69535337941/Snap_Consumer_AR_Research_GlobalReport.pdf>

Javornik, A, Marder, B, Pizzetti, M & Warlop, L 2021, Research: How AR Filters Impact People’s Self-Image, Harvard Business Review, viewed 7 March 2025, <https://hbr.org/2021/12/research-how-ar-filters-impact-peoples-self-image>

Johnson, L 2024, Understanding AR filters for enhanced video effects, Byteplus.com, viewed 7 March 2025, <https://www.byteplus.com/en/topic/15911?title=understanding-ar-filters-for-enhanced-video-effects>

Ruslanbekova, M 2023, ‘Instagram filters 101: What it is, how to create, best practices, and more ’, sociality.io, 19 August, viewed 7 March 2025, <https://sociality.io/blog/custom-instagram-ar-filter/>

Zachry, M & Sinlapanuntakul, P 2024, ‘Augmenting Self-presentation: Augmented Reality (AR) Filters Use Among Young Adults’, Lecture notes in computer science, Springerlink, pp. 93–105, viewed 7 March 2025, <https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-61041-7_7>

[eenymeenyminiemoeee]

[W8] Filtered Fun: From Beauty Myths to Digital Chaos

Week 8: Digital Citizenship and Software literacy: Instagram Filters

Ah, filters—our beloved digital magic tricks 🎩✨. One moment, you’re your regular self; the next, you’re a glowing, wide-eyed deity with impossibly smooth skin 😇💖—or, you know, a talking potato 🥔😂.

What started as a harmless Snapchat gimmick 👻📸 has spiraled into a full-blown existential crisis—are we using filters, or are they using us? 🤯🔄

While beauty filters have turned self-perception into a battlefield of contoured illusions 💄⚔️, TikTok’s chaotic, reality-bending effects 🤪📱 remind us that sometimes, it’s better to look ridiculous than perfect 🤡🎭.

Barker’s (2020) article examines the impact of Snapchat’s beauty-enhancing filters on self-image and beauty standards 📱💄. Originally a space for unfiltered self-presentation, Snapchat now perpetuates Eurocentric ideals by slimming faces, enlarging eyes, and lightening skin ✨👀.

While some users enjoy these effects 🥰, others experience insecurity, body dysmorphia, and a disconnect from their real appearance 😞🔍. Filters normalize unattainable beauty, influencing mental health 🧠💔 and even cosmetic surgery trends 💉📊.

Beauty brands exploit this through sponsored filters, further embedding these ideals 💰📸.

Rettberg (2014) explores filters as technological, cultural, and cognitive tools that shape perception in digital culture🧠🌍. Filters selectively remove, enhance, or distort content, influencing self-presentation, journalism, and social media narratives 📰📱.

Platforms like Instagram and Facebook reinforce aesthetic and social norms, promoting progress-driven stories while suppressing negative or non-conforming content 🚫🎭. Filters also reflect biases, such as photography’s historical preference for lighter skin tones 📷⚖️.

While selfies can resist misrepresentation, they also enforce idealized self-images 🤳✨. Rettberg argues that filters are inescapable, structuring our digital and social realities, making it crucial to recognize their influence on modern culture 🌐💡.

Rather than continue the discussion on beauty filters, I would like to shift focus to filters that serve purely entertaining purposes 🎭😂, especially in an era where TikTok dominates digital culture 📱🔥.

Unlike beauty filters, which often reinforce societal beauty standards 💄⚖️, TikTok’s AR effects and interactive filters are designed for humor, creativity, and engagement 🎨🤪. From voice changers 🔊🎤 to AI-generated transformations 🤖✨, these filters encourage playfulness rather than perfection.

Their viral appeal lies in their ability to spark trends 🚀🔥, allowing users to experiment with identity, storytelling, and visual effects 🎬🎭 in a way that prioritizes fun over self-enhancement 🎉😂.

Furthermore, entertainment-oriented filters foster a more interactive and engaging online sphere 🌍💬. Rather than simply viewing content, individuals actively utilize these features to produce brief performances, visual tricks, and collaborative challenges 🕺📹 that encourage widespread involvement 👏🤝.

This evolution underscores how filters have transcended mere aesthetic modification to become instruments for novel modes of digital communication 🌐✨.

Although beauty filters may impose constraints 🚫💄, entertainment filters provide a platform for imaginative and inventive activity 🧠🎭, demonstrating that digital enhancement is not necessarily limiting but can also promote enjoyment and individual articulation 🎉💡.

At the end of the day, filters have taken us from "Am I pretty enough?" 😩💄 to "Why do I look so good as a dancing Shrek?" 🟢💃—and honestly, that’s progress.

Social media’s beauty standards might still haunt us 👻📸, but at least now, we can swap faces with our pets 🐶😆, glitch ourselves into pixelated nightmares 🖥️👾, and turn into hyperrealistic croissants 🥐😂 for fun.

So, if you’re feeling down about unrealistic beauty ideals 😔📷, just remember: somewhere, right now, a TikTok filter is giving a hamster the voice of Morgan Freeman 🐹🎙️.

And that, my friends, is the kind of digital future I can get behind 🚀🌍.

[chippiyumyum]

WEEK 8: DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP AND SOFTWARE LITERACY: INSTAGRAM FILTERS

Snapchat initially emerged as a platform designed to capture raw, unedited moments. However, the introduction of augmented reality (AR) filters in 2015 significantly transformed its purpose, making it a pioneer in bringing AR technology into mainstream social media. These interactive filters quickly gained popularity, shifting Snapchat’s focus from authenticity to curated beauty. Once regarded as the “anti-Photoshop” of social media, Snapchat has since evolved into a tool that reinforces conventional beauty norms, influencing how users present themselves online.

Similarly, Instagram introduced face filters in May 2017 as part of its Stories feature, drawing inspiration from Snapchat’s AR filters (Instagram, 2017). These filters allowed users to add various effects to their selfies, including animal ears, crowns, and makeup enhancements. The use of cosmetics to enhance physical appearance has been a long-standing practice, yet digital filters now offer the ability to achieve flawless skin, sculpted features, and perfect contours instantly. While filters may appear to be harmless and entertaining, they contribute to unrealistic beauty standards, heighten self-consciousness, and blur the distinction between self-expression and commercial influence.

Research indicates that many beauty filters modify facial features in a way that aligns with Western beauty ideals, often slimming the face and nose, enlarging the eyes and lips, and brightening the skin (Barker, 2020). This transformation has led users to critically reflect on the self-image that these filters promote. Emily Arata, an editor at Elite Daily, notes that filters function as a form of “airbrushing,” providing users with a sleek and fashionable appearance that can replace the need for traditional makeup. Meanwhile, Rettberg (2014) emphasizes that filters are not merely technological tools but also cultural artifacts that shape self-perception. As Instagram played a pivotal role in popularizing these digital enhancements, concerns have arisen regarding their broader implications.

For some users, the seamless transformation of their facial features into an idealized version of beauty is unsettling, as it creates an inability to appear “unattractive” even when they attempt to do so (Barker, 2020). These effects are particularly troubling for people of color, who have reported that beauty filters often lighten their skin, reinforcing exclusionary beauty standards. The persistent exposure to digitally altered self-images has been linked to negative psychological consequences. Baker highlights that many individuals experience increased insecurity about their natural appearance, contributing to a phenomenon known as “digitized dysmorphia.” As a result, plastic surgeons have observed a rise in patients seeking cosmetic procedures to replicate their filtered selfies, further demonstrating the profound impact of AR filters on contemporary beauty perceptions

The widespread use of AR filters on social media has significantly influenced beauty standards and self-perception. As social media continues to shape societal perceptions of beauty, it is crucial to foster digital literacy, encourage transparency in photo editing, and promote diverse, unfiltered representations of self-image. By critically engaging with filters and their implications, users can navigate social media in a way that prioritizes authenticity, self-acceptance, and mental well-being.

REFERENCES

Barker, J. (2020). Making-up on mobile: The pretty filters and ugly implications of snapchat. Fashion, Style & Popular Culture, [online] 7(2), pp.207–221. doi:https://doi.org/10.1386/fspc_00015_1.

Instagram (2017). Introducing Face Filters & More on Instagram | Instagram Blog. [online] about.instagram.com. Available at: https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/introducing-face-filters-and-more-on-instagram.

Rettberg, J.W. (2014). Filtered Reality. Seeing Ourselves Through Technology, pp.20–32. doi:https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137476661_2.

[binhwantstoeatoreo]

Week 9 - Gaming Communities, Social Gaming and Live Streaming

"I'm coming out as trans...human": Gaming, Transhumanism, and the Fight for Digital Identity in a Participatory Democracy

We’re already stepping into the era of Soft Transhumanism—where Augmented Reality (AR) seamlessly integrates into our lives, altering both our digital and physical selves, often without us even realizing it (binhwantstoeatoreo, 2025).

But what happens when transhumanism collides with gaming?

Here, AR and digital avatars aren’t just cosmetic—they’re extensions of identity. For some, it’s about anonymity. For others, it’s survival.

Attached blog post 1. Transhumanism & Augmented Reality (binhwantstoeatoreo, 2025).

Take Years & Years (BBC, 2019), a show that eerily foreshadows our future. A teenage girl comes out to her parents—not as transgender, but transhuman. In a world where AR overlays can permanently reshape your face, she chooses to exist with a digital filter, her true self pixelated and untethered from flesh:

“I don’t want to be human,” “I want to be digital.”

she declares.

Attached video 1. Years & Years' scene where the daughter comes out as transhuman to her parents (BBC, 2019).

It’s an exaggerated, dystopian take, but the core truth is undeniable: online, identity is fluid. Age, gender, body—everything becomes customizable. And in gaming communities, this freedom isn’t just theoretical; it’s a lived reality, reshaping how we see ourselves and each other.

Streamers, AR, and the New Digital Self

Gaming communities have evolved from faceless text forums to real-time voice chats in Counter-Strike and World of Warcraft, fostering deeper connections (@wow-confessions, 2016). Avatars in Second Life and The Sims Online expanded digital self-expression (Green, 2018), while Twitch and YouTube turned gamers like Ninja and Pokimane into public figures, merging gaming with identity performance (Nielsen, 2015).

Figure 1. The evolution of gaming community (original visual compilation).

Now, AR avatars and VTubers like Ironmouse and CodeMiko take digital identity further, using AR-facetracking and motion-capture technology to become virtual shapeshifters (Silberling, 2022). During the COVID-19 pandemic, VTubing skyrocketed, especially in China, as audiences sought comfort in virtual entertainers. Isolation deepened parasocial bonds, making VTubers a coping mechanism for stress and uncertainty (Tan, 2023).

But VTubing is more than entertainment—it’s identity work, a fusion of self-reinvention and digital citizenship (Taylor, 2018). As Hjorth et al. (2021) argue, digital spaces aren’t just escapist; they continuously shape identity. Avatars and AR personas offer individuals agency over self-representation, allowing them to explore identities often restricted in the physical world (Harrell & Lim, 2017).

This shift brings both opportunities and challenges. Ironmouse embodies VTubing’s power to transcend physical limitations, breaking Twitch records despite battling CVID (Grayson, 2022).

Attached video 2. A pharmacist reacted to Ironmouse's health condition (Yu, 2024).

Meanwhile, CodeMiko pushes the limits of AR streaming, though her AI-enhanced content has led to Twitch bans for explicit discussions and avatar physics manipulations, raising questions about VTubers' blurred line between performance and real-world accountability (Grayson, 2021).

Attached blog post 2. CodeMiko's controversial behaviours (Grayson, 2021).

However, this fluidity complicates authenticity. When identity is endlessly edited, are we becoming more ourselves or adapting to algorithmic expectations? The termination of Uruha Rushia over alleged information leaks (Ashcraft, 2022) and Vox Akuma’s struggles with obsessive fans (Cambosa, 2022) highlight the fine line between freedom and vulnerability in the digital self.

Attached video 3. Akuma's (2023) livestream video discussed about parasocial fans.

As Judith Butler suggests, identity is always constructed, shaped by societal pressures, personal desires, and algorithmic visibility (McKinlay, 2010). The rise of AR-fueled personas forces us to ask: Does this evolution empower self-expression, or does it intensify the pressure to curate a marketable version of ourselves?

Participatory Democracy and Transgender Identity in Gaming

Gamers aren't just passive consumers; they actively shape their digital environments through participatory democracy, leveraging anonymity as a key aspect of digital citizenship (Hon, 2022). The freedom to choose, modify, and inhabit digital identities is a core right in these environments (Muriel, 2021). Through AR avatars, character customization, and digital self-expression, players create identities that may not be possible in the physical world (Chia et al., 2020).

For transgender gamers, this is transformative. Digital spaces provide what the real world often denies—an authentic sense of self. Avatars aren’t just visuals; they are affirmations of identity. MMOs, VRChat, and character-driven games allow for gender exploration beyond rigid binaries, empowering transgender players to reclaim their identity in ways offline life restricts (Janiuk, 2014).

Attached blog post 3. Janiuk (2014) expressed her opinion on how gaming is a safe space for the transgender community.

Tiffany Witcher—a non-binary VTuber, voice actress, and disability advocate—uses their digital persona not just for content creation but to champion better representation and accessibility in gaming, solidifying their role as a vital voice in both the VTuber and advocacy communities (Crystal Dynamics, 2023). This ability to redefine oneself digitally is especially crucial for marginalized groups. Game designer Anna Anthropy has long emphasized how gaming provides a space for self-exploration and identity affirmation, validating personal struggles and offering alternative ways of being (Small, 2023; Don, 2014).

Attached video 4. Tiffany Witcher (2024)'s trailer video about herself.

In these community-driven spaces, where identity is fluid and self-determined rather than dictated by traditional institutions (Keogh, 2021), avatars become powerful tools of self-expression. Baldwin (2018) highlights how avatar creation alleviates dysphoria, enabling trans gamers to explore their ideal selves. Similarly, Kosciesza (2023) notes that transgender and non-binary players use avatars to navigate and affirm their identities beyond real-world constraints, simultaneously challenging societal norms.

Yet, this freedom faces resistance. The same communities that foster self-expression also harbor gatekeepers and reactionary groups seeking to police digital identities, challenging transgender and nonbinary representation (Tran, 2022). Nearly 90% of openly queer and trans gamers have faced online harassment regarding their identities (Giardina, 2021). Still, gaming, by design, embraces fluidity—where identity is not assigned but chosen. AR face filters further this exploration, enabling transgender individuals to experiment with gender presentation (Brewster et al., 2025). However, the lack of inclusive filters often causes dysphoria rather than empowerment, revealing the ongoing fight for truly affirming digital spaces.

The Future: Who Gets to Be Themselves Online?

Transhumanism in gaming isn’t just a niche concept—it’s a window into the future of identity. As AR and AI push deeper into our digital lives, the question remains: will these tools free us or confine us to new forms of self-policing?

Gaming communities offer a glimpse into what’s possible. They show us both the power and fragility of digital selfhood, the ways we can be more ourselves online—and the ways we can be erased. The dream of an internet without barriers is far from realized, but within these spaces, players are fighting to make it real.

And that fight? It’s far from over.

References:

@wow-confessions. (2016, March 14). Trade chat is honestly one of the most entertaining parts of the game for me. All of the weird conversations that happen on trade chat are hilarious. Tumblr. https://www.tumblr.com/wow-confessions/141022188688/trade-chat-is-honestly-one-of-the-most

Akuma, V. (2023, August 30). PARASOCIAL. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aym5NedRnBo

Ashcraft, B. (2022, February 25). Popular Virtual YouTuber’s Contract Terminated For Allegedly Leaking Private Info. Kotaku. https://kotaku.com/youtube-virtual-vtube-uruha-rushia-hololive-streaming-j-1848593169

Baldwin, K. (2018). Virtual Avatars: Trans Experiences of Ideal Selves Through Gaming. Markets, Globalization & Development Review, 03(03). https://doi.org/10.23860/mgdr-2018-03-03-04

BBC. (2019, May 15). I’m transhuman. I’m going to become digital - BBC. Youtube. https://youtu.be/qOcktbXSfxU?si=xRA6HQW3LXZLrjrS

binhwantstoeatoreo. (2025, March 12). Transhumanism & Augmented Reality: When the Future Becomes the Filter. Tumblr. https://www.tumblr.com/binhwantstoeatoreo/777789030429573120/transhumanism-augmented-reality-when-the-future?source=share

Brewster, K., DeGuia, A., Mayworm, S., Ria, K. F., Monier, M., Starks, D., & Haimson, O. (2025). “That Moment of Curiosity”: Augmented Reality Face Filters for Transgender Identity Exploration, Gender Affirmation, and Radical Possibility. Deep Blue (University of Michigan). https://doi.org/10.1145/3706598.3713991

Cambosa, T. (2022, May 31). Vox Akuma Stands Up Against Toxic Fan Behavior on Stream - Anime Corner. Anime Corner. https://animecorner.me/vox-akuma-stands-up-against-toxic-fan-behavior-on-stream/

Chia, A., Keogh, B., Leorke, D., & Nicoll, B. (2020). Platformisation in game development. Internet Policy Review, 9(4). https://doi.org/10.14763/2020.4.1515

Crystal Dynamics. (2023, June 29). 7 Trans & Non-Binary Content Creators You Should Definitely Be Following – Crystal Dynamics. Crystaldynamics.com. https://www.crystaldynamics.com/blog/2023/06/28/7-trans-non-binary-content-creators-you-should-definitely-be-following/

Don, J. (2014, November 15). Anna Anthropy: Dys4ia And Re-Defining The Indie Game. Femmagazine.com; FEM Newsmagazine. https://femmagazine.com/anna-anthropy-dys4ia-and-re-defining-the-indie-game/

Giardina, H. (2021, March 6). LGBTQ+ Gamers Are Facing an Epidemic of Online Harassment. Them. https://www.them.us/story/lgbtq-gamers-facing-epidemic-of-online-harassment

Grayson, N. (2021, March 4). CodeMiko Is The Future Of Streaming, Unless Twitch Bans Her First. Kotaku. https://kotaku.com/codemiko-is-the-future-of-streaming-unless-twitch-bans-1846349881

Grayson, N. (2022, April 20). How a pink-haired anime girl became one of Twitch’s biggest stars. Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/video-games/2022/04/20/twitch-ironmouse-vtuber-subathon-interview/

Green, H. (2018, January 5). What The Sims Teaches Us about Avatars and Identity. Paste Magazine. https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/the-sims/what-the-sims-teaches-us-about-avatars-and-identit

Harrell, D. F., & Lim, C. U. (2017). Reimagining the avatar dream. Communications of the ACM, 60(7), 50–61. https://doi.org/10.1145/3098342

Hjorth, L., Richardson, I., Davies, H., & Balmford, W. (2021). Exploring Minecraft. In Exploring Play: Ethnographies of Play and Creativity (pp. 27–47). Palgrave Macmillan. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-59908-9_2

Hon, A. (2022, September 20). How Game Design Principles Can Enhance Democracy. Noema Magazine. https://www.noemamag.com/how-game-design-principles-can-enhance-democracy/

Janiuk, J. (2014, March 5). Gaming is my safe space: Gender options are important for the transgender community. Polygon. https://www.polygon.com/2014/3/5/5462578/gaming-is-my-safe-space-gender-options-are-important-for-the

Keogh, B. (2020). The Melbourne indie game scenes. Routledge EBooks, 209–222. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780367336219-18

Kosciesza, A. J. (2023). Doing gender in game spaces: Transgender and non-binary players’ gender signaling strategies in online games. New Media & Society. https://doi.org/10.1177/14614448231168107

McKinlay, A. (2010). Performativity and the politics of identity: Putting Butler to work. Critical Perspectives on Accounting, 21(3), 232–242. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpa.2008.01.011

Muriel, D. (2021). Video Games and Identity Formation in Contemporary Society. Oxford University Press EBooks, 378–393. https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780197510636.013.27

Nielsen, D. (2015). Identity Performance in Roleplaying Games. Computers and Composition, 38, 45–56. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compcom.2015.09.003

Silberling, A. (2022, August 20). VTubers are making millions on YouTube and Twitch. TechCrunch. https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/20/vtubers-are-making-millions-on-youtube-and-twitch/

Small, Z. (2023, December 27). Video Games Let Them Choose a Role. Their Transgender Identities Flourished. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/27/arts/transgender-nonbinary-gamers.html

Tan, Y. (2023). More Attached, Less Stressed: Viewers’ Parasocial Attachment to Virtual Youtubers and Its Influence on the Stress of Viewers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. SHS Web of Conferences, 155, 03012. https://doi.org/10.1051/shsconf/202315503012

Taylor, T. L. (2018). “Broadcasting ourselves.” In Watch Me Play: Twitch and the Rise of Game Live Streaming (pp. 1–23). Princeton University Press. https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctvc77jqw

Tran, R. (2022, March 6). Toxic Gaming Culture Breeds Sexism, Homophobia. UCSD Guardian. https://ucsdguardian.org/2022/03/06/toxic-gaming-culture-breeds-sexism-homophobia/

Witcher, T. (2024, November 15). I’m Tiffany Witcher, The Charity Witch on Twitch! Youtube. https://youtu.be/bR5XdZIVkB8?si=kq9v7wiLO8l-6IQg

Yu, I. (2024, October 13). The ENTIRE History of Ironmouse Rare Health Condition Explained (By Healthcare Professional). Youtube. https://youtu.be/R1Wn5Xn-vOM?si=3TU-srdz5p2UV4UA

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This School in Dubai: A Pathway to Excellence and Global Citizenship

Dubai has long been recognized as a global hub of innovation and modernity, with its rapid growth, skyscrapers, and diverse cultural landscape. Among the many features that make Dubai unique, its commitment to providing world-class education stands out. One of the key players in this mission is Taaleem, a network of schools that has transformed the educational landscape of the city.

Founded with the vision of providing a high standard of education, Taaleem has been consistently shaping the future of young minds, preparing them for a competitive, ever-evolving world. The schools under the Taaleem umbrella offer a blend of academic excellence, holistic development, and international perspectives that ensure students are equipped for the challenges of tomorrow.

A Commitment to Excellence

Taaleem is committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and responsible citizenship among its students. Its schools offer a diverse curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and innovation. The wide range of programs available, including the British and American curricula, ensures that Taaleem is accessible to both local and international students.

Dubai schools are renowned for their commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic development. The city offers a diverse range of educational institutions, catering to various curricula, including British, American, and international programs, ensuring that every student can find a path that suits their educational goals. Dubai schools emphasize the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, preparing students for success in an ever-changing world.

A Holistic Approach to Education

While academic excellence is at the core of Taaleem’s philosophy, the organization understands the importance of a well-rounded education. That’s why Taaleem schools prioritize the development of students beyond the classroom. Emphasis is placed on extracurricular activities such as sports, music, art, and drama, all of which play a crucial role in fostering creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Physical education is given particular attention, with state-of-the-art facilities that support a range of sports and activities. Taaleem believes in the power of sports to build resilience, teamwork, and discipline, and it encourages students to participate actively in athletic programs. These activities not only promote physical health but also contribute to the development of social skills, as students learn how to work together towards a common goal.

Similarly, the arts are a central component of Taaleem's holistic approach. Students are allowed to explore different forms of artistic expression, from visual arts to music and drama. This exposure to creativity helps nurture imaginative thinking, emotional intelligence, and an appreciation for diverse cultures.

Emphasis on Technology and Innovation

In an era where technology is transforming every aspect of life, Taaleem schools are committed to integrating cutting-edge technology into the learning process. The schools are equipped with modern classrooms, digital resources, and interactive learning tools that enhance the student experience. From coding and robotics to digital literacy, students are encouraged to develop a deep understanding of technology and its role in shaping the future.

This focus on technology isn’t just about teaching students how to use gadgets or software. It’s about fostering an environment where innovation and problem-solving are celebrated. Students are encouraged to think outside the box, collaborate with peers, and use technology as a tool to create solutions to real-world problems. This approach helps prepare students not only for future careers in technology but also for the digital challenges of everyday life.

A Global Perspective

Dubai is a truly international city, and Taaleem schools reflect this diversity in both their student body and their approach to education. The schools prioritize cultural awareness and global citizenship, preparing students to thrive in a connected world. With students coming from all corners of the globe, Taaleem provides a unique opportunity for young learners to engage with diverse perspectives and learn from one another.

Taaleem also encourages students to take part in international exchange programs and extracurricular activities that foster a global mindset. These experiences allow students to expand their horizons, learn about different cultures, and develop empathy for others. By embracing diversity, Taaleem schools prepare students to become thoughtful and responsible global citizens.

Strong Community and Parental Involvement

At Taaleem, education is seen as a partnership between the school, students, and parents. The organization believes that students benefit greatly when families are actively involved in the educational process. Taaleem schools encourage open communication with parents, providing regular updates on academic progress, extracurricular activities, and overall well-being.

Moreover, Taaleem schools offer a variety of platforms for parental engagement, from parent-teacher meetings to workshops and community events. This open-door policy ensures that parents are not only informed but also involved in their child’s educational journey. Taaleem understands that a strong home-school partnership leads to a positive learning experience and better outcomes for students.

Preparing for the Future

In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s not enough to simply provide students with academic knowledge. Education must equip students with the skills and mindset to navigate uncertainty, adapt to change, and make meaningful contributions to society. Taaleem schools understand this and are committed to preparing students for the future.

Through a blend of rigorous academic instruction, personal development, and a focus on innovation, Taaleem ensures that its students are ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The schools emphasize not only the importance of academic achievement but also the need for social responsibility, ethical decision-making, and environmental consciousness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a school in Dubai offers students an exceptional education that combines academic excellence with a focus on personal development. With diverse curricula, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to fostering creativity and critical thinking, students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the future. The emphasis on technology, innovation, and global citizenship ensures that learners not only excel in their studies but also grow as responsible individuals ready to contribute positively to society.

Moreover, the vibrant multicultural environment in a school in Dubai enriches the learning experience, allowing students to engage with diverse perspectives and cultures. This holistic approach to education nurtures well-rounded individuals who are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and values to succeed in a globalized world. For families seeking a high-quality education that prepares children for the future, a school in Dubai provides a comprehensive and enriching learning experience.