Effects of internet and social media on society today
The term internet refers to the interconnection between computers and electronic devices globally. Social media, on the other hand, refers to the social sites that use the internet to connect people all over the world by posting ideas and regular interaction. Social sites include Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, youtube and. Social media has many uses; education, business engagements, socializing, advertising and communication. Statistics state that there are approximately 3.5 billion social media users all over the world with Facebook as the most commonly used. Social media has several effects on society, both positive and negative.
Positive effects of social media include;
- learning
Learning in majority of institutions takes place face-to-face. With the evolving technology, teachers and parents are switching to online learning that complements traditional face-to-face learning. It enables student engagement and course enjoyment by reducing monotony in class. Online education in institutions of higher learning helps to improve collaboration between students and their tutors. There are many platforms where students can learn online. These include Facebook, telegram, Edmodo and zoom.
- Communication
In the past, people would have to watch television, listen to the radio or buy magazines to get access to the news. Nowadays, one can read a story from the comfort of their homes using their phones. It has also resulted in faster communication between individuals. Gone are the days when one would have to wait for so long to hear from a loved one through letters and other slower means. The internet has revolutionized communication such that people can communicate even when they are continents apart.
- Business
The internet has really helped companies and individuals doing business. We no longer have to hawk or use billboards and pamphlets for marketing. Social sites have become the best place to market products. It also makes it easier to describe how to use a product by using videos. Product reviews enable customers to find their best fit in the market.
Adverse effects of social media include;
- Negative exposure
The internet has also caused so many ills in society. Children learn behaviours such as sex and drug abuse from what they see on social networks.
- Cybercrime
Recently, individuals have switched from burglary to hacking people’s systems to obtain their confidential information, especially those of money. Other forms of cybercrime include; invasion of privacy, theft of identity, scams, hacking and cyberstalking
Conclusion
The internet was invented with one goal- improving the ways of life. So much has changed as a result. The advantages are so weighty, which explains the improved ways of doing things. Responsible individuals should take proper action to reduce the pitfalls of social media and avoid compromising the already positive effects.