Digital Engagement in Politics

Today, I read an article called "Can media literacy education increase digital engagement in politics?" (Kahne & Bowyer, 2019).  I feel that this is a timely article as we are gearing up for another presidential election this year. Kahne & Boyer stated that a survey done by Common Sense Media (Robb, 2017) "found that social media are now the most common source of news for young people ages 13-18" (par. 1). This is much different from years past when earlier generations would get their news from the radio, television, or even newspapers. However, young people will use their social media apps such as Facebook or even TikTok to receive breaking news and spread it to their friends. I would be surprised if they do not receive the breaking news on their social media apps faster than their parents do via the traditional route. As a result of young adults getting their news via social media, people have to be clever on how to and where to campaign in regard to politics. Nowadays, many politicians try to get the younger voters on their side. How can they do this? By placing advertising or campaigning on social media. By doing this, the young adults can see the politician's views and might be more willing to engage in politics. I fully believe, in my opinion, that people will be involved in certain things if you bring it to their level. By bringing politics to social media where most young adults are spending their time, they would be most likely to get involved and take action. 

References

Kahne, J., & Bowyer, B. (2019). Can media literacy education increase digital engagement in

politics? Learning, Media and Technology, 44(2), 211-224. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439884.2019.1601108 

Robb, M. B. (2017). News and America's kids: How young people perceive and are impacted by

the news. San Francisco, CA: Common Sense. 

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