yhlifestory
Digital Communities Blog
12 posts
Hi everyone! I'm Yiheng and I'm studying Media & Communications with a major in Advertising and Social Media. The posts on this blog are part of my assignment for MDA 20009. A little disclaimer :“Portions of this site and the works within it are being produced with the intention of critique and/or educational use under Australia's 'fair dealing' exceptions to copyright (Section 40 & 41). However, if you feel your IP is being infringed, please contact my service provider (Tumblr) with the appropriate DMCA requests, as I, the single author take full responsibility for the content of this site.”
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yhlifestory · 5 months ago
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Week 12: Crowd sourcing in times of crisis
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When I hear about crowdsourcing in times of crisis, I'm struck by how it transforms individuals into active participants in disaster response. It's no longer just about authorities and experts; it's about everyday people using their skills and resources to make a difference.
The Gulf Coast oil spill shows how powerful crowdsourcing can be. Regular people, just using their smartphones and the internet, were able to share important data and information that helped with the response. This kind of involvement is amazing and shows how everyday citizens can make a big difference during crises.
In April 2010, the Gulf Coast of the United States, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida, faced a big environmental disaster when the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded. The explosion killed 11 workers and caused a huge oil spill that lasted 87 days, letting millions of barrels of oil flow into the Gulf of Mexico. (Pallardy 2024) This spill hurt sea animals, coastal areas, and local businesses. The oil reached beaches and wetlands, damaging places where fish and birds live and breed. The fishing and tourism industries lost a lot of money because of the polluted waters and closed beaches. Many people, including government agencies, companies, and volunteers, had to work together to clean up the mess.
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In response to the crisis, crowdsourcing played a crucial role in monitoring the spill's impact and coordinating cleanup efforts. One example is the use of citizen science initiatives, where volunteers collected data and observations on the spill's effects on wildlife, water quality, and shoreline contamination. This data was then shared online through platforms like the Gulf Oil Spill Tracker, allowing researchers and responders to access real-time information and make informed decisions. (National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) 2021)
Social media also played a significant role in crowdsourcing during the Gulf Coast oil spill. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook were used to share information about the spill, coordinate volunteer efforts, and connect affected communities with resources and support. (Beedasy et al. 2020)
The use of crowdsourcing in response to the Gulf Coast oil spill demonstrates the power of collective action in times of crisis. By harnessing the collective efforts of volunteers and leveraging online technologies, we can improve the speed and effectiveness of our response efforts, ultimately mitigating the impact of disasters on our communities and environment.
References :
Beedasy, J., Samur Zúñiga, A.F., Chandler, T. and Slack, T. 2020. Online community discourse during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill: an analysis of Twitter interactions. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, [online] 51. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2020.101870.
‌National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI). 2021. Deepwater Horizon. [online] Available at: https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/deepwater-horizon.
‌Pallardy, R. 2024 Deepwater Horizon oil spill | Summary, Effects, Cause, Clean Up, & Facts. https://www.britannica.com/event/Deepwater-Horizon-oil-spill.
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yhlifestory · 5 months ago
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Week 11 : Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance
When I think back to my early days of using the internet, I remember a time when online interactions were mostly positive and friendly. However, as the internet has evolved, so too has the nature of online interactions. Today, the rise of social media has brought with it a dark side – online harassment and cyberbullying.
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Online harassment, often referred to as cyberbullying when targeting young people, is a serious issue that can have profound effects on its victims. It involves the use of digital communication platforms to intimidate, threaten, or humiliate individuals. (Mohamed and Frank 2024)This behavior can take many forms, including sending abusive messages, sharing personal information without consent, or spreading rumors and lies.
"Charley : Schoolmates 'told me to die' in online posts"
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Charley Oliver-Holland
The story of Charley Oliver-Holland highlights the serious impact of online bullying. Charley faced relentless bullying after classmates discovered her Instagram page, where she connected with people who shared her interests. However, instead of support, she received hurtful comments about her appearance, sexuality, and more. The bullying didn't stop at school; it continued online, with strangers joining in. Charley's experience reflects a common issue where online bullying behavior is normalized, making it harder to stop or report. (Barker 2020)
In Charley's case, social media governance could have played a crucial role in preventing and addressing the online bullying she experienced. This could include clear community guidelines prohibiting bullying and harassment, automated content moderation tools to detect and remove harmful content, and user education on online safety. (Plannedparenthood.org 2019) Additionally, support services for victims of bullying could be provided, including mental health resources and guidance on reporting abusive behavior. (Ranjith, Vranda and Kishore 2024)Implementing these measures could help create a safer online environment, empowering victims like Charley and potentially mitigating the harm caused by online bullying.
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In a nutshell, it's important to talk about online bullying and harassment. Teaching young people how to behave well online and giving them ways to deal with bullying can make the internet safer for everyone. If we all work together, we can stop online bullying and make the internet a more positive place for everyone.
References :
Barker, B.M. 2020 Bullying: Schoolmates 'told me to die' in online posts. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-55133454.
Mohamed, S. and Frank, L. 2024 'Cyberbullying and Online Harassment: A Multifaceted examination of digital platform violence,' ResearchGate [Preprint]. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/379155576_Cyberbullying_and_Online_Harassment_A_Multifaceted_Examination_of_Digital_Platform_Violence.
Plannedparenthood.org. 2019. Planned Parenthood. [online] https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/bullying-safety-privacy/bullying/bullying-social-media.
‌Ranjith, P.J., Vranda, M.N. and Kishore, M.T. 2024 'Barriers to Mental health support in Cyberbullying: A thematic analysis of what mental health professionals and cyber experts think,' Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine [Preprint]. https://doi.org/10.1177/02537176241253390.
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yhlifestory · 5 months ago
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Week 10 : Gaming Communities, Social Gaming and Live Streaming
This week was a bit tough for me because I'm not a gamer at all and gaming isn't really my thing. But it has been interesting to do research because it was a whole new world for me.
Playing games today is so different from what it used to be. We no longer need to worry about having enough controllers for everyone at home or waiting for someone to be free to play. Now, we can just hop online and join gaming communities on social media to play with people from all over the world. Virtual worlds and online social spaces have their own rules that guide how players interact with each other. Sometimes, platforms let players help decide these rules, but it doesn’t always go smoothly. It's a fascinating shift from how we used to play games, showing just how much technology has changed the gaming experience.
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In Malaysia, gamers hang out on different online platforms where they can chat and interact. They use Discord a lot, especially for specific games or types of games. Here, they talk about strategies, share tips, and plan when to play together. (Ashworth 2024) These groups often have tournaments, giveaways, and other events to make everyone feel like they belong and are part of a team. Social media sites like Facebook and Twitter are also big for Malaysian gamers. They have groups and pages just for them where they can chat and make friends. These communities are more than just gaming; they're about bringing people together who have the same interests and making them feel like they're part of something fun and exciting online.
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Malaysians are hooked on mobile gaming, especially with games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and PUBG Mobile leading the pack. These games offer more than just entertainment; they create virtual spaces where players can team up, strategize, and enjoy friendly competition. (www.mygameon.my n.d.)Social gaming goes beyond just playing; it's about building connections and forming bonds with others who love gaming as much as you do. It's not uncommon for these friendships to extend beyond the game, creating a sense of community and belonging among players.
The phenomenon of live streaming gaming content has taken Malaysia by storm, thanks to platforms such as Twitch and Facebook Gaming. Local streamers have emerged as influential figures, attracting large followings by sharing their gameplay and interacting with viewers. (Sinha 2022) These streamers have become icons within the gaming community, contributing to the exponential growth of Malaysia's gaming culture.
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The Malaysian Dota 2 community is a great example of how passionate Malaysian gamers are. They've formed teams, competed in local and international tournaments, and shown their skills to the world. (Kathuria 2021) Platforms like Facebook and Discord are important for them, helping them organize tournaments, share tips, and make friends. This community really shows how dedicated Malaysian gamers are and how they're shaping the gaming scene in the country.
In short, Malaysia's gaming culture is a mix of different cultures, new technologies, and lots of creativity. Gaming communities, social gaming, and live streaming are more than just trends; they're key parts of a culture that's always changing and captivating people all over the country.
References :
Ashworth, B. 2024 'How to use Discord: A Beginner’s guide,' WIRED, 3 June. https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-use-discord/.
Kathuria, R. 2021 Top five rising Malaysian Dota 2 players to watch out for. https://afkgaming.com/dota2/originals/top-rising-malaysian-dota-2-players.
Sinha, R. 2022 Top Facebook alternatives for different social media types. https://beebom.com/facebook-alternatives/.
www.mygameon.my. (n.d.). 10 Fun Mobile Games Made By Malaysians You Should Play Now! | MyGameOn. [online] https://www.mygameon.my/posts/10-fun-mobile-games-made-by-malaysians-you-should-play-now/
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yhlifestory · 5 months ago
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Week 9 : Instagram Filters
Hey Instagrammers! Let’s talk about everyone's favorite way to make selfies look amazing—Instagram filters! These cool tools can turn a plain photo into something awesome or add something fun to your stories. Using Instagram filters isn’t just about being creative, it also teaches us about being good digital citizens and getting better with tech.
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Instagram filters, a form of augmented reality (AR), have revolutionized the way we interact with photos. They allow us to enhance our images with a myriad of effects, from adding quirky animations to transforming our faces with fun masks. (Jain 2023) These filters are not just about adding flair to our posts; they also offer valuable insights into our digital behavior.
The Rise of Instagram Filters
Since its beginnings in the 1960s, augmented reality (AR) has grown in popularity due to its improved accessibility and integration with smartphones. (Rood and Rood 2023) Snapchat debuted Lenses, their take on face filters, in 2015, and they quickly became popular. (Inde 2023) Following Snapchat's lead, Instagram introduced its own AR filters in 2017, and the platform has since become one of the most widely used spaces for these digital enhancements.
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Snapchat dog filters in 2015 is a MUST.
One of the coolest things about Instagram filters is how they can completely change the mood of your photo. Whether you're going for a vintage vibe with the "1977" filter or adding a pop of color with "Lark," there's a filter for every aesthetic. But Instagram filters aren't just about making your photos look pretty. They can also be a fun way to express yourself and show your personality indirectly. From goofy effects like bunny ears and rainbow vomit to more artistic filters that mimic film cameras or paintings, there's no limit to the creativity you can unleash with filters.
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As digital citizens, it's crucial to use filters responsibly. While they can be entertaining, they also have the power to distort reality and promote unrealistic beauty standards. This is especially important to consider when younger users are involved, as filters can impact their self-esteem and perception of beauty. According to a ParentsTogether survey from 2021, 48% of teenagers stated that they have been using beauty filters at least once a week. (ParentsTogether and Silverman-Stoloff 2021) Numerous of these filters support an unrealistically uniform definition of beauty. By using filters mindfully and promoting authenticity online, we contribute to a healthier digital ecosystem.
Using Instagram filters can also enhance our software literacy. Platforms like Spark AR Studio empower users to not only use existing filters but also create their own. This opens up a world of creative possibilities and encourages us to explore the depths of digital creativity. (Burrows 2020) Understanding how filters work—how they track facial features, apply effects, and integrate with our photos—allows us to use them more effectively and innovatively. Creating your own filters can be a fun and educational experience. It involves learning about AR technology, graphic design, and even basic programming concepts. By diving into filter creation, we can develop valuable digital skills that extend beyond social media, enhancing our overall technological literacy.
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In conclusion, Instagram filters are more than just fun effects; they're a window into digital citizenship and software literacy. By using them mindfully, we can not only enhance our online presence but also contribute to a more positive and authentic digital community. So, the next time you use an Instagram filter, think about the message you're sending and the creative potential you're unleashing. After all, in this digital age, every post is an opportunity to express yourself and shape the online world around you.
References :
Burrows, L. 2020 A guide to Spark AR: Create and share AR effects. https://www.creativebloq.com/features/spark-ar.
Inde, T. 2023 The Brief History of Social Media Augmented Reality Filters – INDE. https://www.indestry.com/blog/the-brief-history-of-social-media-ar-filters#:~:text=Snapchat%20acquired%20Looksery%20in%202015%20for%20a%20hefty,Snapchat%20Lenses%20was%20an%20instant%20hit%20among%20users.
Jain, A. 2023 'Instagram Filters - Behind the Aesthetics of Social Media (2023 Guide) | SpotSAAS Blog,' spotSaaS Blog, 14 October. https://www.spotsaas.com/blog/instagram-filters-behind-social-media/.
ParentsTogether and Silverman-Stoloff, A. 2021 New findings from teen survey shows beauty filters harm teens’ self-esteem. https://parentstogetheraction.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ParentsTogether_Social-Media-Beauty-Filters-Survey-Results_09-29-21.pdf.
Rood, I. and Rood, I. 2023 When augmented reality was invented | Robots.net. https://robots.net/tech/when-augmented-reality-was invented/#:~:text=The%20precursor%20to%20AR%20can%20be%20traced%20back,wireframe%20graphics%20onto%20the%20user%E2%80%99s%20field%20of%20view.
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yhlifestory · 5 months ago
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Guess what I will be talking about in my next blog >>>
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one of my favorite filters fr
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yhlifestory · 5 months ago
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Week 8: Body Modification on Visual Social Media
‌Hey everyone,
Today, I want to dive into a topic that's been on my mind a lot lately: body modification on visual social media. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time on Instagram, I've noticed how pervasive and influential body modification has become in the online world.
From perfectly sculpted abs to flawlessly smooth skin, visual social media platforms like Instagram are flooded with images of bodies that seem almost too perfect to be real. And, in many cases, they aren't real. Filters, photo-editing apps, and even cosmetic surgery are often used to create these idealized versions of ourselves. But why do we feel the need to modify our bodies to fit into this curated online world?
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As a millennial, I've felt the pressure to conform to these unrealistic standards of beauty. It's hard not to when your feed is filled with influencers who appear to have the perfect body. This pressure can lead to a range of body modifications, from tattoos and piercings to more extreme measures like cosmetic surgery. The desire to fit in and be accepted can push us towards altering our appearance. It's crucial to recognize that these modifications should be a personal choice, not something we feel compelled to do because of societal pressure. (BetterHelp Editorial Team 2024)
Influencers play a significant role in shaping our perceptions of beauty and body modification. Many influencers openly share their journeys with body modification, whether it's getting a new tattoo, undergoing cosmetic procedures, or simply using filters to enhance their photos. This transparency can be both positive and negative. (Bonnhy 2023) It can help normalize body modification and reduce the stigma around it but it also can create unrealistic expectations and make followers feel inadequate if they don't look a certain way. That's why it's important to follow influencers who promote body positivity and self-acceptance.
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One influencer who stands out to me is Cardi B. She has been open about her decision to undergo cosmetic surgery due to her insecurities. Cardi B's transparency about her body modifications highlights how even celebrities feel the pressure to meet certain beauty standards. (Kaloi 2022) It's a reminder of the powerful impact these standards can have, and how they can lead individuals to make significant changes to their bodies in an effort to feel more confident and accepted.
The Impact on Self-Esteem
The constant exposure to modified images can have a detrimental impact on our self-esteem. We begin to compare ourselves to these idealized versions and feel like we fall short. This can lead to a vicious cycle of self-doubt and a never-ending pursuit of perfection. (Marsden 2023) It's essential to remind ourselves that social media is a highlight reel, not an accurate representation of reality. The images we see are often heavily edited and don't reflect the true diversity of human bodies. Embracing our uniqueness and celebrating our imperfections is key to building a healthy self-image.
Body modification on visual social media is a complex issue. While it can be a form of self-expression and empowerment, it's essential to approach it with a critical eye and recognize the pressures that influence our decisions. Let's strive to create a space where everyone feels valued and accepted, regardless of how they choose to present themselves.
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< Remember, you are enough just the way you are. Embrace your uniqueness, and don't let the digital world dictate your self-worth. >
Reference :
BetterHelp Editorial Team 2024 Social pressure and its impacts | BetterHelp. https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/general/how-does-social-pressure-impact-our-choices/.
Bonnhy, R.A. 2023. The Impact of Social Media’s Unrealistic Expectations. [online] www.socialplug.io. https://www.socialplug.io/blog/social-media-unrealistic-expectations.
Marsden, G. 2023 The impact of social media and media on mental health and beauty standards — imperfectly perfect. https://www.imperfectlyperfectcampaign.org/news/2023/6/6/the-impact-of-social-media-and-media-on-mental-health-and-beauty-standards.
Kaloi, S. 2022. 40 Celebrities Who Have Opened Up About Their Plastic Surgery Experience. [online] Glam. https://www.glam.com/925721/celebrities-opened-up-about-plastic-surgery/
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yhlifestory · 6 months ago
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Week 7: Slow Fashion and Influencers
“Buy less. Choose well. Make it last.” -Shelly Xu
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"Slow fashion" aims to slow down the crazy pace of fashion by releasing just a few lines each year but it's also sustainable. Meaning it's better for the environment, but it's often expensive, limited in size, and hard to find. It's not as convenient as fast fashion. Lately, more people are paying attention to slow fashion, even calling it a trend. However, slow fashion isn't just a trend; it's becoming something we see as essential. (SeventhQueen and Chomsky, 2023)
During class, my friend started a chat about what we were wearing. When they asked who was wearing 'slow fashion,' only a few of us were. Most of us had clothes from thrift stores, second-hand shops, or local brands. This little conversation showed that slow fashion means different things to different people. Not everyone can afford to buy from slow fashion brands, but many of us are taking steps towards sustainability in our own way.
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A study I found looked into how slow fashion affects shoppers. Most people in the study thought sustainable clothes cost more than regular ones. It was interesting that only one person said the higher price meant better quality. The study found that people are pretty price-sensitive and don't want to spend extra to be eco-friendly. This made me think that a lot of folks see sustainable fashion as a pricey luxury that might not even be better quality. (Domingos, Vale and Faria, 2022)
While doing some research, I also found that a lot of people are still confused about what sustainable fashion really is. To clear this up, we need to explain it better so everyone can understand. This is where social media influencers come in—they're helping to spread the word and make slow and sustainable fashion more popular.
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Kittieyiyi, also known as Lim Zi Yee, is a Malaysian slow fashion influencer known for her unique style. (not gonna lie, I love her style so much, it's giving me positive vibes) She's big on promoting sustainable fashion, encouraging people to buy locally and reduce waste. She teams up with brands that share her eco-friendly values, showing off their stuff and urging her followers to make greener choices. With her colorful outfits, she proves that being eco-conscious can still be fun and trendy. She's all about making sustainability cool and doable for everyone, which is why she's a favorite among those wanting to make a difference online. (Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur, 2022)
We're pretty lucky these days with the internet and all. Everything is at our fingertips. You can shop for a whole new wardrobe without even leaving your couch. It's fast and easy, and there are so many deals to be found. With all this convenience, it's no wonder that sustainable fashion is becoming more popular. I'll admit, I wasn't really into it at first. However as I started researching and writing about it, I discovered a whole world of influencers and social media accounts dedicated to sustainable fashion. They've really opened my eyes to the importance of living a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
References :
Domingos, M., Vale, V.T. and Faria, S. 2022. Slow Fashion Consumer Behavior: a Literature Review. Sustainability, [online] 14(5), p.2860. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14052860.
Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur. 2022. LSA100: Rule Breaker Kittie Yiyi explores the whimsy in life through fashion and beauty. [online] https://www.lifestyleasia.com/kl/digital-cover/lsa100-rule-breaker-kittie-yiyi/.
SeventhQueen and Chomsky, R. 2023. What is Slow Fashion? A Guide to Sustainable Style. [online] Sustainable Review. https://sustainablereview.com/what-is-slow-fashion-a-guide-to-sustainable-style/.
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yhlifestory · 6 months ago
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QUOTE FOR 2024: 21, WE STAY POSITIVE
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yhlifestory · 6 months ago
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Week 6: What is Digital Citizenship? Hashtag Publics, Political Engagement and Activism
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Welcome back to my blog! ☀️
This week's content is gonna be a little bit serious as we're going to talk about the world of digital citizenship, focusing on how hashtags bring people together for political engagement and activism. I'll break it down so it's easy to understand and fun to read. So, what exactly is digital citizenship? Basically is having the know-how to use digital tools to connect with others, share ideas, and be active in our online communities. It's all about being a positive part of the digital world. (Media smarts, 2022)
I guess all of us are very familiar with hashtags (#), even I also love using hashtags when posting stuff on social media. For me, hashtag publics are like online groups that come together around specific hashtags. When people use the same hashtag, they join a bigger conversation. I’ve seen two famous hashtags #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo have created huge online movements (the impact is legit crazy). (Bestvater et al., 2023) These hashtags bring together people with similar concerns, letting them share stories and raise awareness. It's pretty cool how a simple hashtag can connect voices from all over the world, showing us how serious these issues are and that they're happening everywhere, we can't just ignore or brush them off.
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I deep down really think that hashtag publics are really powerful because they make it easy for people to get involved in political engagement. Political engagement involves activities like voting, campaigning, or sharing information to influence government and public policies. Social media has made this incredibly accessible. I remember seeing #BlackLivesMatter was everywhere, and all of my social media platforms were flooded by this hashtag, that's why I did some research because I was too curious about how is this hashtag became so famous.
#BlackLivesMatter started in 2013 after Trayvon Martin's killer was acquitted. Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi created it to fight racism and violence against Black people. It became a worldwide movement where millions used the hashtag to share their stories and call for justice. (Adams, 2020)
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Another hashtag #MeToo is also frequently being used and mentioned. I know one of the cases in China, there's a big #MeToo moment occurred involving a former intern, Xianzi, accusing a famous TV anchor, Zhu Jun, of sexual assault. Xianzi's accusation sparked a wave of support online, with many women sharing their own stories of harassment in the entertainment industry using #MeToo. This moment highlighted the power of such movements to create a sense of community and empower people to fight for what's right. (Nast, 2018)
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Hashtags aren't just for raising awareness—they're also a big part of activism. Activists use them to get organized and keep the ball rolling. Like during climate strikes, hashtags such as #FridaysForFuture help folks rally worldwide. Students from all over use these tags to swap stories and get others fired up to join in. It's wild how a little tag can turn into a big force for making things happen.
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In short, being a good digital citizen means using hashtags wisely, talking about politics, and getting involved in activism. That's how we can make the internet better and make real change happen. So, if you see a hashtag that speaks to you, jump in and add your voice to the conversation.
References :
Adams, C. 2020. A movement, a slogan, a rallying cry: How Black Lives Matter changed America’s view on race. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/movement-slogan-rallying-cry-how-black-lives-matter-changed-america-n1252434.
Bestvater, S., Gelles-Watnick, R., Odabaş, M., Anderson, M. and Smith, A. 2023. #BlackLivesMatter Turns 10. [online] Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2023/06/29/blacklivesmatter-turns-10/.
Media smarts, 2022. What is Digital Citizenship? [online] MediaSmarts. https://mediasmarts.ca/digital-media-literacy/general-information/digital-media-literacy-fundamentals/what-digital-citizenship.
Nast, C. 2018. One Year of #MeToo: How the Movement Eludes Government Surveillance in China. [online] The New Yorker. https://www.newyorker.com/news/news-desk/one-year-of-metoo-how-the-movement-eludes-government-surveillance-in-china.
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yhlifestory · 6 months ago
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fyi, this is my favorite moment from Running Man hehe ( I watched this like 10000times loll ) BIG LOVE FOR KWANGSOO 🤍
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yhlifestory · 6 months ago
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Week 5 : Reality TV and Digital Communities: The Fandom of Running Man
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Confession time: I'm not really a reality TV person. I usually steer clear of the genre, but there's one show that has completely won me over—Running Man.
This week, I'm focusing on the connection between reality TV and social media, and one great example of this is Running Man. As a Korean variety show, Running Man has not only garnered a massive global following but has also cultivated a substantial online fanbase. The show's unique blend of humor, games, and celebrity interactions has created a dynamic online community that passionately engages with the content.
I feel like one cool thing about Running Man is how it lets fans easily connect with their favorite cast members and talk about the show online. Platforms like Twitter are buzzing with fans chatting about episodes, sharing memes, and creating fan art. These online chats help create a strong community where fans from everywhere can bond over their love for the show.
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Another thing I want to talk about is Running Man's social media game is very on point. Their social media team is really smart about how they connect with fans online. They share behind-the-scenes clips, run polls, and even take ideas from fans for new episodes. (Allkpop, n.d.) For instance, on their Instagram, they chat with fans in comments and stories, which makes fans feel special and excited about the show. This smart move not only keeps fans interested but also shows that Running Man values its fans.
There is no doubt that Running Man has had a big impact on how fans connect online. Fans make a lot of content like reviews and funny videos. The show is so popular that fans from different countries have come together to translate episodes, meet up, and watch the show together. As I know, in Singapore, there's a Running Man fan club that organizes meetups and screenings. (AsiaOne, 2014) This international fan base has led to cultural exchanges and friendships that extend far beyond the digital realm. It can be seen that Running Man has really brought fans together from all over the world.
Hashtags are a big part of the Running Man fandom.
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I still remember when Kwang Soo officially quit the show, my Twitter feed was flooded with his pictures and hashtags like #GoodbyeLeeKwangSoo and #3991DaysWithKwangsoo, which are also trending worldwide. Maybe I'm a big fan of Kwang Soo, so fans like me are finding it hard to accept the fact that he's really quitting.
Come back to our story, these hashtags help fans find each other and join conversations, allowing us to discuss our favorite moments and express our feelings in real-time. Social media trends, like specific challenges or catchphrases from the show, often go viral, attracting new viewers and growing the fan base.
From my point of view, the way Running Man engages its audience and encourages interaction is truly amazing. It’s fascinating to see how a TV show can bring together people from different backgrounds and countries, united by their love for the show. The digital community that has formed around Running Man shows the power of social media in creating connections and fostering a sense of belonging. Being part of such a vibrant and active fandom adds another layer of enjoyment to watching the show.
In short, Running Man shows how reality TV and digital communities are connected. The show’s ability to engage viewers and create a sense of community has led to a lively and active fandom that thrives on interaction and shared experiences.
Refrences :
Allkpop. (n.d.). ‘Running Man’ to reveal behind-the-scenes moments from their recent fan meeting. https://www.allkpop.com/article/2019/09/running-man-to-reveal-behind-the-scenes-moments-from-their-recent-fan-meeting
AsiaOne, 2014. Over 2,600 ecstatic fans attend Running Man fan meeting in Singapore. https://www.asiaone.com/entertainment/over-2600-ecstatic-fans-attend-running-man-fan-meeting-singapore
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yhlifestory · 6 months ago
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Welcome to my blog
Hey everyone! I just wanted to quickly hop on here and thank you all for taking the time to read my posts. I hope you enjoy it and learn something new <3
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