Concepts And The Impact Of Digital Communication On Identities: Digital Social Networks And Social Media

Question 1

It can be argued that those who do have access to the online world have greater social capital… apps related to friendship groups

Answer 1

1. Snapchat: helps friends connect online through features like Snaps and Chats, which allow users to send photos, videos, and messages directly to each other in real-time. It also uses Stories and Snap Map so friends can share their daily moments and see each other’s locations for spontaneous
2. Instagram: fosters connection through Direct Messages, Stories, and Tagging, letting users interact by sharing content, reacting to updates, and staying involved in each other’s lives

Question 2

It can be argued that those who do have access to the online world have greater social capital… apps related to work networks

Answer 2

1. LinkedIn: helps people develop their work networks by allowing them to connect with colleagues, industry professionals, and recruiters, while sharing career updates, skills, and job opportunities. It also offers features like endorsements, professional groups, and personalised job recommendations

Question 3

It can be argued that those who do have access to the online world have greater social capital… apps related to family networks

Answer 3

1. WhatsApp: helps families connect by offering instant messaging, voice and video calls, and group chats, making it easy to stay in touch no matter where they are
2. The ancestry website:connects families by allowing them to explore their family history and discover relatives through shared DNA and historical records

Question 4

It can be argued that those who do have access to the online world have greater social capital… apps related to networks linked to hobbies, interests or religion

Answer 4

1. Facebook: helps sports, hobby, and religious groups connect through dedicated Groups, Events, and allows members to share updates, plan meetups, and engage in discussions
2. Discord: supports these communities with voice channels, text chats, and customisable servers that create real-time, interactive spaces for group communication and coordination

Question 5

Castells

Answer 5

• Discusses ‘informationalism’ - Unlike industrialism, which focused on transforming matter and energy, informationalism centers on the role of knowledge and information networks in shaping economies, societies, and cultures in the digital age.
• E.g. showing how sites like LinkedIn, Microsoft Teams and Google Meet are important in the workplace