DL 341

Welcome back! Here's Digitally Literate, issue #341.

🔖 Key Takeaways

Algorithmic Evolution: Facebook shifts to recommendation-based media, signaling a major change in how we engage with social networks.
Memes and Misrepresentation: Political memes flatten complex ideas into divisive discourse.
Taking a Digital Detox: The importance of stepping away to reflect and reset.

📚 This Week’s Highlights

1. Map of Computer Science

This video from the Domain of Science YouTube channel offers a fantastic visual overview of computer science. I recently used this as a resource while facilitating sessions at CSPD Week 2022.
Why this matters: As computer science becomes more integral to education, clear and accessible resources help educators and learners alike.

Meta announced a shift towards an algorithmic, recommendation-based model for the Facebook newsfeed. Content will now be heavily curated by algorithms rather than user connections.
Why this matters: This move accelerates the transition from "social media" to "recommendation media," with significant implications for transparency and user agency.

3. Algorithmic Anxiety

The increasing use of algorithms to shape online interactions raises concerns about how these systems influence decision-making and trust.
Why this matters: Understanding algorithms and their biases is essential as they become central to our digital experiences.

4. Video Stars

The next generation of social platforms prioritizes entertainment over connections, with content creators at the forefront.
Why this matters: Social media’s evolution reflects shifting user priorities and introduces new challenges for authenticity and engagement.

Memes simplify complex issues, often promoting divisive narratives. Christopher Ferguson critiques their role in misinformation and polarized discourse.
Why this matters: Thoughtful engagement and fact-based discussions are essential for healthy civic dialogue.

6. What Happens to Christian Influencers When They Get Married?

This article examines how influencers in the evangelical purity culture navigate marriage and the resulting shifts in their content.
Why this matters: It raises broader questions about personal growth, transparency, and changing public narratives in online spaces.

🛠️ DO: Rethink Productivity Advice

Jesse Anderson highlights the challenges of traditional productivity systems, especially for those with ADHD. He offers a more adaptable model focused on four pillars: Captivate, Create, Compete, Complete.
Why this matters: Productivity should be about meaningful progress, not just looking busy.

🌟 Closing Reflection

“We can boost our immune systems by strengthening our social networks and decreasing stress.”
— Jane McGonigal

Reflect and Engage

How do algorithmic recommendations shape our perception of the world?
What steps can you take to develop healthier relationships with social media?
How can we promote nuanced discussions in an era of viral memes?

Thank you for reading Digitally Literate. Stay tuned for more insights and discussions. Connect with me at hello@digitallyliterate.net or explore Newsletter Index for all past issues.