An Educator’s Guide to Social Media Algorithms

May 11, 2022
An Educator’s Guide to Social Media Algorithms

Social Media algorithms are becoming an increasing concern in our everyday lives. The specialized set of instructions, or digital calculations, are determining the frequency and relevancy of the information that we are interacting with online. This is making individuals in our fully connected world vulnerable to a blurred lens of our world and is altering our ability to make informed and educated decisions that benefit the well being of others. The following are just a few reasons as to why it is important to be aware of Social Media algorithms.

Why do Social Media Algorithms Matter?

  1. They influence the daily information that we consume.
  2. They cater to certain content styles and posts.
  3. They can perpetuate disinformation.
  4. They can encourage harmful divisions.

It is important to understand how social media algorithms work and to factor this into our critical and creative thinking when navigating the digital world. Social Media algorithms have a powerful influence on our communication systems and individuals should be aware that this can be a potentially dangerous way to navigate current events and personal decision making. It might be hard to avoid Social Media algorithms, but we can certainly challenge the digital information that we choose to interact with by exploring more reputable and credible digital sources.


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