Written by: Saachi Varghese, Edited by: Naya Nassri
Created by Ayse Ece Ozgoren
I have been a student at Gems International School for the past four years and as a teenager, I believe that social media definitely had a huge impact on students and the way our characters have been modified. As we know, everyone has their own upbringing. Upbringing is a crucial factor that contributes to teenage behavior. There is a lot that could be considered as upbringing, for example, being highly active as a teenager is a result of upbringing. To get more of an insight on social media, I have interviewed Ms. Bethany Wessel, who is one of the experts on digital citizenship here at GIS, and this is her view on the topic.
What is your opinion on social media?
I think social media is an amazing concept that has changed the way we look at communication. Many of the barriers from the past, such as distance or population size, no longer apply in this case. The entire world has now become a person’s audience at the click of a button. This is an awesome thing, but can also be a concern.
Do you think social media affects teenagers negatively or positively?
I think social media affects teenagers both positively and negatively. Social media gives a voice to those who otherwise might stay quiet, but can also amplify the voices of those who are seeking to cause trouble. In this case, I think it is crucial that teenagers recognize that words are important but that tone can often be lost in a digital world. In other words, I don’t think the evolution of our human minds has quite come to understand the power of the platform.
What solutions would you suggest to solve the problems caused by social media for teenagers?
Since we are not able to see the faces of those on the other side of the screens we are typing on, I think practicing empathy is essential. It is important to try to remember to treat others as we want to be treated and that kindness is something we should all strive to see more of. One bit of advice is to limit screen time so that you aren’t missing the beauty of the world in front of you for the digital world we have become obsessed with. Another tip is to limit your engagement with chat groups such as Whatsapp. Lastly do not give a voice to those who bully others, a lack of response is the best tool to quiet down the bullies.
At what age do you think students should start using social media?
I do not recommend social media to be used by those under the age of 12. I think that when parents do allow their children on social media, they should limit the applications they grant access to. In my family, we have a setting that requires me to give permissions for each download request. I tend to ask around and research what the alternative uses are for some of the apps, as unfortunately not all of them are used correctly. I believe the less “digital drama” a person has, the better they feel.
How would you say it models their character?
I think that how one uses social media has a very real influence on their character. An important consideration is whether you would make the same choices of what you post online if a person who you respected greatly was looking over your shoulder, perhaps a parent, a grandparent, or a trusted person. Would they be proud of what you are posting about? I think a good rule of thumb is to always ask yourself before you post, “Is it necessary? Is it kind?” The answers will help guide you!
This interview with Ms. Bethany has definitely impacted my opinion of using social media as a student. Social media is a very powerful tool that should be used carefully.
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