Social Media Evolution: From Web to Mobile

This module examines the early forms of social communication on the internet, prior to the World Wide Web. Students will learn about the first 'killer app' email, newsgroups and BBS Bulletin Boards, the emergence of online communities, and early forms of online identity experimentation through aliases, avatars, and pseudonyms.

This module explores the explosion of networked interaction after the emergence of the World Wide Web. Topics include the rise of blogs and wikis, the concept of 'Web 2.0', and the increasing importance of web presence in personal identity. Students will examine the democratization of publication and the emergence of participatory culture.

This module focuses on the dominant social media platforms and their impact on everyday life and political communication. Students will study the rise of Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, examining how these platforms transformed online social interaction and identity representation. The module also covers the push towards 'real name' web presence.

The final module examines how social media evolved with the advent of mobile devices and ubiquitous connectivity. Topics include mobile-first platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, locative media, wearable technologies, and the implications of big data generated by users. Students will explore how social media became integrated into every aspect of daily life through mobile technology.