According to research, social media is digital technology that allows the sharing of ideas and information, including text and visuals, through virtual networks and communities. It typically features user-generated content that lends itself to engagement via likes, shares, comments, and discussion.
Understanding the Core Definition
Based on the provided research, social media isn't just websites or apps; it's a fundamental type of digital technology. Its primary purpose is facilitating communication and interaction among users.
Key characteristics highlighted by the research include:
- Digital Technology: Social media platforms exist in the digital realm, accessed via devices like smartphones, computers, and tablets.
- Information Sharing: A central function is the exchange of ideas, thoughts, news, and other forms of information.
- Content Types: This sharing isn't limited to just text; it explicitly includes visuals, such as photos and videos.
- Virtual Connections: The sharing happens within online structures, referred to as "virtual networks and communities." These are groups of people connected online, rather than physically.
User-Generated Content and Engagement
A defining feature of social media, according to the research, is user-generated content. This means the platforms' content is primarily created by the users themselves, not solely by the platform owner or a professional media company.
This user-generated content is designed for engagement. The research specifies common forms of engagement:
- Likes: Expressing approval or appreciation.
- Shares: Distributing content to one's own network.
- Comments: Providing feedback or opinions in text form.
- Discussion: Engaging in back-and-forth conversations around content.
These engagement features turn passive consumption into active participation, which is a hallmark of social media platforms.
Examples of Social Media Features
While specific platforms vary, the research points to fundamental components that enable social media's function:
- Profiles or accounts for users.
- Ways to connect with other users (e.g., following, friending).
- Tools for creating and uploading content (text posts, photos, videos).
- Buttons or mechanisms for liking, sharing, and commenting.
- Feeds or timelines displaying content from connected users.
These features collectively create the environment where ideas and information can be shared and discussed within virtual communities.
Summary of Social Media Characteristics
We can summarize the key characteristics based on the research:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Technology Type | Digital |
| Core Function | Sharing ideas and information |
| Content Supported | Text, Visuals (photos, videos, etc.) |
| Structure | Virtual networks and communities |
| Content Origin | Typically User-Generated Content (UGC) |
| Interaction Method | Engagement (Likes, Shares, Comments, Discussion) |
This framework provides a solid foundation for understanding what constitutes social media from a research perspective.
