More Than Just Screens

Social media has become a major part of everyday life for students, parents, and even teachers. Certain apps like Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat are viewed as distractions. While they can be distracting and time consuming at times there are positive effects that cannot be ignored. With just a few taps, social media can create movements, spread news, and connect thousands of people from all over the world within seconds. 

One of the major benefits of social media is communication. People can reach out to friends and family instantly now, no matter the location or time. This allows students to work on assignments together, reach out to teachers about questions, and share their ideas to others online. The parents can boast about their kids accomplishments and share it to family members who weren’t able to see the accomplishments in person. It is especially helpful in emergencies, social media can spread the news within seconds, spreading the information quickly which helps people stay informed in real time. Like what happened in October 2023, people found out within seconds and informed their loved ones to stay inside and be careful. This is very helpful to those who don’t watch the news but are on social media platforms.

Are you someone who is scared of confrontation? Well social media can help give you a voice. Several important movements and causes have been noticed because of social media posts that were shared. Though not all the movements and speaking out is for good causes there are more good than bad movements. More young people use social media, they especially use it to bring awareness to issues or events happening within their community. If a school needs help to raise money for a game, or if a classmate lost their house to a fire and they are doing events to help raise money, the word gets spread through word of mouth but mostly social media. People will find it on social media then look into it, after doing so they tell others about it who in turn look it up as well. It’s a giant circle that leads right back to social media being the main informer. 

Although social media can be distracting at times, it really depends on how people choose to use it. If you set limits and use the app responsibly it can help the user avoid problems while they still enjoy the benefits of the app. So instead of viewing social media as something that is only harmful, people should realize how powerful it can be if and when used in a positive way. 

Overall, social media is more beneficial than harmful. It connects people from all over the world, old and new friends can connect, allows for information to be spread quickly, and gives people the opportunity to make a difference. That difference may happen a few days after it is shared or years later, it will still make a difference. Social media is not just a source of entertainment any more, it is a tool that can bring people together and create change. It’s up to you on how you use it. Will it be a distraction or a tool to help you?

“Dell’s Social Media Listening and Command Center” by Geoff Livingston is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

“Free Social Media Networking Icons – Ultra Glossy Silver Buttons” by webtreats is licensed under CC BY 2.0.