Changing Citizenship
The presentation by Raquel Recueo in the YouTube video- Digital Youth, Social Movement, and Democracy in Brazil, was very interesting. I particularly was interested in the examples given of positive social movements that occurred because of social media, including the use of Facebook and Twitter. The political sites, that Recueo referenced, that were formed online in order for the citizens of Brazil to give and take information regarding the upcoming election was a great example of the use of digital technologies to create social movement. W. Lance Bennett (2008) also noted the ability of networking technologies to ignite social movement when thirteen to twenty million people across the globe united to protest the war in Iraq (p.9). This truly shows the reach that these new forms of communication have. These example also show that although todays youth may not be as involved in traditional civic activities such as joining clubs, organizations and extra curricular activities, they are engaged in civic activities in online communities that promote social change.
One issue that comes from sending a great deal of time online, I that young people often lack to communication skills to get their issues and concerns across to others in a public setting. As Bennett (2008) points out, skill sets need to be taught so that abilities in public communication with digital media can be built and strengthened (p. 8).
From the readings and the video it is clear that digital media is and amazing tool with limitless potential. It can be used to share ideas, information, and to work collectively for the common good. However, this tool's use needs to be taught so that the users communicate their thoughts effectively and appropriately in the vast online community.
Bennett, W. L. (2008). Changing citizenship in the digital age. Civic life online: Learning how digital media can engage youth, 1, 1-24.
Raquel Recuero - Digital Youth, Social Movements, and Democracy in Brazil | Connected Learning. (2012, July 24). Retrieved June 1, 2016, from
http://connectedlearning.tv/raquel-recuero-digital-youth-social-movements-and-democracy-brazil
Hello Michelle,
ReplyDeleteYour post brings up valid points about youth and media. Watching the video, I was surprised to hear about the positiveness of internet use in Brazil, especially since there is a negative connotation here in the U.S. This can serve as a model for youth here.
I agree that students should be exposed to positive aspect of the digital media, and use it in that sense. Unfortunately, it is all too common for this tool to be used as an attack on others. I believe, not only do we need to teach appropriate use of technology, but most importantly, we much treat others with respect no matter the context.
Good points!
Michelle- I enjoyed reading your post about the positive impact that the internet had with regard to the upcoming election in Brazil. it evidenced, to me, that it is possible to effect social reform through the use of new media. Technology, as a tool, has the potential to open doors for advocacy and social energy for today's youth ( the next generation of citizens). As educators, we need to emphasize the importance of digital responsibility and accountability. This will hep shape our students and prepare them to make effective contributions in our society, digital or otherwise. I love your statement, Brittany, that we "treat others with respect no matter what the context". This applies to all of our interactions with others, including technological ones.
ReplyDeleteMichelle,
ReplyDeleteAnother thing I noticed from the Recuero video was how she illustrates the way that people use online communication to be a "vehicle for all types of discursive violence." This is a big part of these emerging communication outlets, the fact that cowards can hide behind the keys of a message board and say whatever they want, with some very terrible consequences.
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DeleteShe also mentioned how these violent posts are using humor to defame people groups, is becoming more and more acceptable, saying that it's ok because it's funny...
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ReplyDeleteHi Michelle,
ReplyDeleteI think if we educate our students in the ability to fact check, and not take everything that they see as truth will help them tremendously. One thing that brought reality about the advances of the US, is the fact that Facebook was fairly new to Brazil in 2012 (when the video was made). I'm curious to see where they are today.
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post and had a lot of similar feelings about this video. I like how you focused on the connection between youth and the media they use daily. There is something extremely important and valid about us modeling the appropriate behavior exposure for digital media. Unfortunately I think we are not the best role models when using digital media in and out of the classroom. But I do feel that we need to hold our students accountable for the media use. I truly believe our students communication skills are being compromised from their use of media.