Contextualization

The era we live in is undeniably the digital age. Technology, particularly social media, has permeated every facet of our lives, from how we communicate and connect with others, to how we receive and process information. This ubiquity of social media in society has sparked a myriad of discussions, both positive and negative, on its impact. In this project, we will delve into the influence of social media on language and communication, and how it has become a powerful tool in shaping societal norms and behaviors.

The language used on social media is distinct and characterized by its brevity, informality, and the use of abbreviations and acronyms. This phenomenon is known as "internet slang" or "net speak". While some critics argue that this type of language is "dumbing down" communication, it can also be seen as an evolution of language, adapting to the fast-paced and concise nature of digital communication.

Moreover, social media platforms have become virtual arenas for public discourse, where ideas are shared, debated, and sometimes even amplified. This has led to the rise of "hashtag activism" or "slacktivism", whereby social or political issues are addressed primarily through online engagement. Critics argue that this form of activism is shallow and lacking in real-world impact, but supporters argue that it has the potential to spark real change by raising awareness and mobilizing communities.

Introduction

This project aims to explore the role of social media in shaping language, communication, and societal norms. It will involve a combination of research, analysis, and creative work, allowing students to both understand the theoretical concepts and apply them practically. By the end of this project, students should have a deep understanding of the impact of social media on language and communication, and the potential it holds in shaping societal behaviors.

The following resources can be used as a starting point for the project:

• The Impact of Social Media on Society: This scholarly article provides a comprehensive overview of the influence of social media on various aspects of society, including language and communication.
• Social Media and Language Evolution: This journal article delves into how social media is driving the evolution of language, and the implications of this evolution.
• The Role of Social Media in Political Mobilisation: a Case Study of the January 2011 Egyptian Uprising: This article explores the role of social media in political mobilization, using the Egyptian uprising in 2011 as a case study.
• The Language of Social Media: Identity and Community on the Internet: This book provides an in-depth analysis of the language used on social media, and how it reflects and shapes online identities and communities.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Social Media Language and Activism

Objective of the Project:

The main objective of this project is to examine and analyze the impact of social media on language, communication, and societal norms, particularly in the context of activism. This will be achieved through a combination of theoretical research, social media analysis, and the creation of a campaign for a social cause using a popular social media platform.

Detailed Description of the Project:

In this project, students will:

1. Research and analyze the impact of social media on language and communication, focusing on the use of internet slang and the influence of social media on public discourse.
2. Conduct a social media analysis, examining how individuals and communities use social media to raise awareness and advocate for social issues.
3. Create and implement a social media campaign for a social cause of their choice, using the insights gained from their research and analysis.

Students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 members. The total duration of the project is estimated to be more than 12 hours per student, spread over a period of one month.

Necessary Materials:

• Access to a computer with internet connection
• Access to popular social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, Instagram, Facebook)
• Notebook and pen for note-taking during research and analysis
• Art materials for the creation of campaign visuals (optional)

Detailed Step-by-Step for Carrying Out the Activity:

Step 1: Research and Analysis (Approximately 4 hours per student)

• Each group will research and analyze the impact of social media on language and communication, focusing on the use of internet slang and the influence of social media on public discourse.
• This research should draw from the resources provided in the project introduction, as well as other relevant sources that students may find.
• Students should take detailed notes during their research and discussions, highlighting key points and interesting findings.

Step 2: Social Media Analysis (Approximately 4 hours per student)

• Each group will conduct a social media analysis, examining how individuals and communities use social media to raise awareness and advocate for social issues.
• This analysis can involve studying existing social media campaigns, analyzing the language and strategies used, and identifying their impact and reach.
• Students should document their findings and insights from this analysis.

Step 3: Campaign Creation and Implementation (Approximately 4 hours per student)

• Each group will create and implement a social media campaign for a social cause of their choice, using the insights gained from their research and analysis.
• The campaign can include creating posts, videos, infographics, or any other content that can engage and inform the target audience.
• Students should document the process of campaign creation and implementation, noting down challenges faced, strategies used, and the overall response to the campaign.

Step 4: Project Report Writing (Approximately 4 hours per student)

• Each group will write a comprehensive report detailing their project activities, findings, and learnings.

• The report should be divided into four main sections: Introduction, Development, Conclusions, and Used Bibliography.

  • Introduction: The students should contextualize the theme, its relevance, and real-world application, as well as the objective of the project.
  • Development: Students should detail the theory behind the project, explain the activities in detail, indicate the methodology used, and present and discuss the obtained results.
  • Conclusion: Revisiting the main points of the project, students should explicitly state the learnings obtained and the conclusions drawn about the project.
  • Used Bibliography: It should contain all the sources that students used during the project.

All these steps should be carried out in a collaborative manner, with each group member contributing to the research, analysis, and campaign creation. At the end of the project, each group will present their campaign and findings to the rest of the class, fostering discussion and learning from each other's experiences.