In a world of rapid technological advancement that has become ubiquitous, it is impossible to ignore the profound influence of technology and social media on today’s youth – both the good and the bad. While concerns about excessive screen time and online safety are extremely valid and often capture media headlines, it is equally important to acknowledge the significant positive impact that technology has had on young people’s lives that often do not receive the same attention publicly. From access to information and educational resources to enhanced communication and empowerment, technology and social media have become powerful catalysts for positive personal growth and social change among our youth. (1)
Access to Information and Education
One of the greatest benefits of technology and social media for youth – the unprecedented access to information and educational resources. Gone are the days when encyclopedias were the primary source of knowledge, today a wealth of information is available online at the tap of a fingertip. Online platforms, educational websites, and digital libraries provide a vast array of educational materials, tutorials, and e-books that empower young learners to explore diverse subjects and pursue their interests beyond the limitations of traditional education systems. This easy and immediate access to information has democratized learning, allowing even those from underserved communities to access educational opportunities and expand their horizons. Some examples include:
- Online educational platforms like Khan Academy and Coursera provide free access to courses and educational resources, allowing young learners to acquire knowledge in various subjects.
- Digital libraries and e-books enable students to access a wide range of reading materials, even if physical libraries are inaccessible or limited in their communities.
- Educational channels, such as TED-Ed, offer engaging and informative videos on a multitude of topics, making learning entertaining and accessible.
Enhanced Communication and Connectivity
Technology and social media have revolutionized communications, enabling young people to connect and engage with individuals who have the same interest as theirs from across the globe. Social media platforms serve as virtual gathering places and communities where young individuals can share ideas, express themselves creatively, and collaborate on projects. These platforms have given a voice to the youth, allowing them to be heard on matters that are important to them. Online communities and support networks have emerged, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among young people who may feel isolated or marginalized in their onlife lives.
Technology has bridged geographical boundaries, making it easier for young people to maintain long-distance relationships with friends and family. Video calls, instant messaging, and social networking sites have facilitated meaningful connections, thus mitigating feelings of loneliness and fostering a global perspective among the youth. Some examples include:
- Social media platforms like Instagram and Discord enable young people to connect with like-minded individuals, forming communities and support networks.
- Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat facilitate instant communication, allowing youth to stay connected with friends and family members across distances.
- Online forums and discussion boards provide spaces for intellectual exchange, where young individuals can engage in debates and learn from different perspectives.
Empowerment and Civic Engagement
Technology and social media have empowered young people to become active participants in social and political conversations, providing them with exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures. Online platforms provide a space for advocacy, allowing young individuals to raise awareness about issues that are important to them. Activism has found new avenues through social media, enabling youth-led movements to gain momentum and mobilize support on a global scale. By leveraging the power of technology, young activists have been able to influence public discourse, challenge societal norms, and drive positive change in their communities.
Technology plays a pivotal role in providing teenagers with a window to global awareness and understanding, all from the comfort of their own homes. By utilizing popular social media platforms like Instagram, youth have the ability to stay updated on global events and share their perspectives without leaving their homes. This instant access to worldwide information empowers youth to be well-informed and engage in meaningful conversations, irrespective of geographical boundaries. Some examples include:
- The #MeToo movement, which gained significant traction on social media platforms, empowered young people to share their experiences and advocate for change regarding issues of sexual harassment and assault.
- Youth-led climate change movements like “Fridays for Future”, initiated by Greta Thunberg, utilized social media to raise awareness, organize protests, and put pressure on governments to address environmental concerns.
- Crowdfunding platforms, such as Kickstarter and GoFundMe, have empowered young entrepreneurs and activists to raise funds for their innovative projects or social causes.
Entrepreneurship, Educational, Sport, and Career Opportunities
Technology and social media have opened up new avenues for entrepreneurial ventures as well as educational, sport, and career opportunities for youth. Platforms such as YouTube and Instagram, have allowed young content creators to showcase their talent, build a following, and monetize their work. Social media influencers have emerged as influential figures, with the ability to shape trends and consumer behavior.
The digital landscape has given rise to a plethora of career options in fields such as digital marketing, web development, content creation, and data analytics. Young people with the necessary skills can leverage technology and social media to launch their own businesses, work remotely, or establish a personal brand. The accessibility and reach provided by these platforms have leveled the playing field, enabling young individuals, especially those with disabilities, to showcase their skills and pursue their passions with fewer barriers to entry. Some examples include:
- Young content creators on platforms like YouTube and TikTok have built successful careers by producing engaging videos and monetizing their content through advertisements and brand collaborations.
- Social media influencers have become brand ambassadors and entrepreneurs, using their online presence to launch their own product lines or promote businesses.
- Online freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr provide opportunities for young individuals to showcase their skills and offer services in various fields, such as graphic design, writing, and programming.
- Technology can promote hand-eye coordination in youth, which can become a positive attribute in occupations such as medicine when it comes to using technology like the “Davinci” surgical robot.
Fosters Problem-Solving Skills:
Digital technologies, particularly gaming on various devices, play a significant role in enhancing and cultivating reasoning and problem-solving skills among users. These immersive experiences require players to independently strategize and strive towards specific objectives. Along the way, youth encounter diverse obstacles and challenges that necessitate effective navigation and overcoming. Consequently, this fosters a youth’s ability to devise creative problem-solving solutions when confronted with real-life situations, including academic assignments, interpersonal conflicts, personal difficulties, and technological hurdles. Through active involvement with these technologies, youth are arming themselves with invaluable skills and abilities that go beyond the digital domain and bring about positive changes in their daily existence.
While it is extremely important to address the negative challenges associated with technology and social media, we must not overlook the many benefits these tools offer youth when approached in a balanced and age-appropriate manner that is parent lead. (2)
Access to information, enhanced communication, empowerment, entrepreneurial opportunities, and fostering critical thinking are just a few ways in which technology and social media have positively impacted the lives of young people.
As we navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape of today’s onlife world, it is crucial to foster digital literacy, responsible usage, and online safety measures to maximize the advantages of technology, while minimizing the risks. By harnessing the power of age-appropriate technology and social media, youth can continue to shape a brighter future for themselves and society at large.
As we share in all our presentations with youth, parents, caregivers, and educators:
“Most teens & young adults are doing super cool & positively creative things online, and we older adults need to start acknowledging this fact”
Teens & Technology – it’s not all doom & gloom!
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
References:
2/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/blog/a-transformational-approach-to-parenting-in-todays-onlife-world/
