Most of us had probably been taught by our parents to be obedient, to be quiet and polite during family reunions or dinner, to keep up a façade of smiles and nods towards family members that are just shared-blood away from being strangers to us. From a young age, we have been taught proper etiquette because well, how we conduct ourselves is a reflection of our personality and character; what is a better way to look pimp and proper other than having proper etiquette?

Such is also the case with the internet. If we can conduct ourselves properly towards strangers on the streets or family members that we barely know, perhaps we could do the same with the internet where thousands of people are there to observe and watch our every action. Also, wouldn’t it be better if we’re like sunshine on the street instead of being the sulking loser in the corner, where the epitome of You Need To Calm Down applies. Shade did never really make anybody less gay!

But what is netiquette? What are the proper ways to express positive netiquette? First of all, we should all be respectful, especially because the internet is a shared space of people with varying backgrounds. It is better if we remain respectful of varying cultures and beliefs. Another is to always be polite. Similar to real life, we don’t start conversations rudely, we try our best to prevent being rude so as to prevent people from feeling uncomfortable. This is also the case for online spaces, it is best if we try to be on our best behavior and be polite and well, try to stop screaming at people who we hate or are just plain annoying. Another is to always be mindful of what we post online. We should always verify if our posts are offensive to a group of people or if it might be a source of misinformation; we should all be responsible netizens for the better of everyone.

So let us take a deep breath, be responsible netizens that observe proper netiquette and stop online toxicity. Stop being too loud on being offensive or insensitive, stop comparing everyone in online spaces that are killing it, and of course, be a responsible netizen!

If you’re one of those that can’t, then maybe you really need to calm down and take a break from the internet!

We can see people everywhere staring at their screens using social media. Even kids and teenagers make their own accounts on social media. We’ve seen a lot of people use social media irresponsibly and are an easy target to hackers, cyberbullying and inappropriate content that can affect their mental health. We can avoid those things by using social media responsibly.

To be a responsible user of social media, we should not share our passwords to other people. Sharing passwords to other people has the control to open your accounts. We should always check our privacy settings, having some control on how we handle our personal information online and what we post and who can see it. Always put your personal information in private, because if it's in public everyone in social media can see it. We should think before we post, always keep in mind before posting, ask yourself if this post can affect people,community or even the government.

A responsible user of social media has a limit on using it. We should always set limits and take a break from using social media. A lot of people are using social media until midnight and some don’t even sleep. Making rules for ourselves that we should follow.For example, we are not allowed to use social media after 10 pm because its time to rest and sleep and normalizing these kinds of rules.

Information is knowledge that you can get from someone or something that can be obtained through studying, searching, listening, etc. It can be either facts or details about a certain topic or subject. 

Misinformation is misleading or incorrect information. It is more likely incorrect information where the facts are wrong. 

Disinformation is rumored information that doesn't have any particular sources and is often unreliable and unverified, compared to misinformation, disinformation is more likely intentional false information.

     The media is a channel of information where it spreads facts and details about a certain topic in order to inform and educate others; however, since the media is democratic, it also leads to misinformation and disinformation.

     Nowadays, people love social media, whether they use it for entertainment, convenience, or information. Which makes it easy for people to manipulate information to spread around the internet. When a media channel releases information about a certain topic, whether it is important or not, sometimes unintentional mistakes happen, such as inaccurate photos, captions, dates, or translations, leading to misinformation. These mistakes can be easily fixed by correcting the previous information.

     However, there are times as well where some false information spreads, such as by changing the correct details, manipulating photos or videos, or spreading rumors about someone, which leads to disinformation that spreads around the internet. Compared to misinformation, disinformation takes a lot of time to be fixed since this issue can be caused by a lot of people who intend to spread false information, which is why speaking up about this issue can be a solution.

"You need to hear me out and they said, " Speak now." - Speak now by Taylor Swift

"Speak now or forever hold your peace." - Speak now by Taylor Swift

               In cancellation culture, people get attacked by people on the internet just because they made a mistake. Because of that mistake, people will cancel you and keep attacking you on the internet, but the thing is, they are attacking the person, not the opinion of the person in that situation. The cancellation culture is due to the toxicity of the people. The toxicity of people can lead to cyberbullying. Since people on the internet are canceling a person, it is possible that they will discredit the target person by posting hurtful or false information about that person.

          Cyberbullying is one of the top issues when it comes to the internet, and this issue is also dangerous for the psychological health of a person. It's also possible that cyberbullying can lead to depression and anxiety, affecting your mental health. Cyberbullying can cause a victim to commit suicide due to the heavy issue that the victim is facing. Being bullied on the internet is not easy to overcome because there are a lot of toxic people there. They are brave because, on the internet, you can hide who you are or pretend to be someone. That's why other people on the internet are brave because they can hide their personal information.

              When it comes to the internet, you need to be media literate because it is important to know the right information to know what is right and what is wrong and to learn to use the internet in a proper way and in a good manner. In this way, negativity could not grow and foster. Instead of spreading toxicity and negativity, let's try to spread peacefulness.

 

 In this third-world country, to catch up with the developed states, improving the country’s technology is one of the things the government should be or has been working on. Recognizing that social media is the current source of information, it can help us stay updated on what’s going on with our politics; thus, the technology we have now should be in its best state. However, not everybody is as flexible as the media can be; there is still a great wall in between, digitally. The digital divide has been the problem of many for years and counting, especially since politics entered the digital scene, which may have or has not yet threatened democracy.

The Digital Divide affects all of us for generations, and despite the fact that it is being managed by the government, their solutions only last for a certain time frame. The effects of the digital divide are that not everybody has access to social media, despite the fact that it is the most used medium here in our country. During the elections, for example, in the midst of the post-pandemic, politicians used social media to promote their campaigns and as a medium to connect with their supporters. Not only were their campaigns being watched, but so was their credibility to lead. Now, how does this affect our democracy? Only a few of us are aware of what is truly happening in our state, especially since most of the information about the government is passed through social media. If it weren’t for Facebook, I wouldn’t even know that the elections were drawing near.

It is scary to think how wide the gap the digital divide has created in a democratic country like ours, such that not everybody can participate in calling out the potential schemes the government proposes just because we cannot access the internet. Therefore, closing the digital divide gives us more access to information, which is crucial in a democratic country to hold its leaders accountable and to have a government that serves the people.

 

AI Tools have become valuable aids in our society as of today. To start, they enhance efficiency in tasks that used to consume so much time. For example, in healthcare, AI helps analyze vast amounts of medical data swiftly, helping doctors make accurate diagnoses. This means quicker treatments and better outcomes for patients. Moreover, in industries like manufacturing, AI-powered robots handle repetitive tasks, freeing up human workers for more creative and complex jobs. This boost in productivity drives economic growth which is great for our society. 

Next, AI Tools enhance our knowledge and understanding. They can sift through mountains of information, finding patterns and insights that some people may not understand. This is an important feature in areas like scientific research, where AI can go through numbers and identify what’s new, accelerating the pace of discovery. For instance, in astronomy, AI assists in sorting through a vast of datasets to identify celestial objects and phenomena. This extends our grasp of the universe and broadens our scientific progress.

Most importantly, AI tools improve security and safety. They are excellent at continuously monitoring and analyzing data to quickly spot anomalies or potential threats. AI can quickly identify and stop threats in cybersecurity, protecting important information. AI also enables quick decision-making in autonomous vehicles, which helps avoid accidents and save lives. These tools act as attentive protectors, improving our safety and general well-being.

Despite their expertise, AI tools occasionally present problems for human society. First and foremost, job displacement is a concern. Some people worry that as AI-enabled computers become more skilled, they could eventually replace human labor in a variety of areas. Robots using AI, for instance, can do activities that were previously handled by people in production. While this might boost productivity, it might also result in the loss of many jobs, which would put a strain on finances and create instability.

The second concern involves the issue of privacy. For AI tools to work well, access to a lot of personal data is usually necessary. This raises questions regarding the handling and security of such information. Privacy violations can have serious consequences in industries like healthcare where sensitive data is involved. AI tools have the ability to expose people to risks involving their personal information if not used with the utmost care.

Additionally, There's also the possibility of relying too heavily on AI tools. Although they might be of great assistance, it is risky to become overly reliant on them. For instance, relying only on AI decision-making without human supervision in important fields like aviation or healthcare can result in potentially fatal consequences if the technology were to malfunction or make a mistake. To ensure safety and effectiveness, it's critical that we maintain a balance between AI help and human judgment.

Traditional Media consists of Print and broadcast mediums such as radio, cable and satellite television, print, and billboards. Because it has been in use for decades, it is typically seen as more reliable. In the past, updates were scheduled, with morning newspapers and evening newscasts being the norm. Face-to-face conversations, landline phones, and handwritten letters were the primary modes of communication, and long-distance communication was expensive and inefficient. Entertainment options were only limited to planned television programs, movie theaters, and physical media such CDs. Lastly, communication was generally defined by expensive phone calls or  handwritten letters with the need to wait several days for a response.

New media includes various mediums such as social media, mobile apps, podcasts, blogs and anything else that can be accessed over the internet. New media can sometimes suffer from issues of credibility, with the spread of misinformation and fake news. Nowadays, people have rapid access to a variety of information the internet, social media, and smartphone apps that helps us to increase our knowledge and to connect with the people.  It also transformed the way we communicate such as Text messaging, video conversations, emails, and social media platforms with just one click away. The entertainment in the digital age are streaming services, YouTube, online gaming, and social media provide on-demand entertainment. 

In crafting this essay, I've come to realize that the advancement of media in modern daily life affects us in nearly every way, from how we receive our news, contact friends and relatives, and on how we grasp information. In the past, our information was limited, and we often had to rely on scheduled broadcasts or printed newspapers. Now, in the digital age, we have instant access to a wealth of information through the internet and social media. However, this transformation has not been without its challenges in such as the spread of misinformation, the alarming rise in media addiction, and the potential effects on our mental health for this we must strike a balance and we must be responsible on how we use media in order to maximize its benefits while minimizing its possible disadvantages. 

The Internet has been considered the revolving media, as it globally revolves around making the lives of existing people easier or distracted. People can’t deny the fact that the greatest invention of human innovation is the internet. It plays a vital role in creating effective communication and spreading information worldwide. It also revolutionized the way humans lived and worked in the 21st century. In today’s digital age, modern age, or information age, it is hard to live without the presence of the internet. Yet, the existence of the internet is defined as a double-edged sword. In this blog post, you'll be able to gain knowledge about how the internet can be a boon or a bane of the information age.

People around the internet can have access to the information that other people put or post on the internet. This is where the idea of unparalleled access to different types of information exists. Before the existence of the internet, most information, especially confidential ones, was kept away and locked in libraries of other archive stations. But as the internet was discovered by people, the democratization of information empowered people to access different information that empowered them to educate themselves and keep themselves informed.

The Internet has made it possible to remove the geographical divide among people, making the world more interconnected with one another globally. Through the process of online communication, it enables people to get informed about anything that is happening within their family and friends. While instant messaging has become an integral part of our daily lives, it promotes a more collaborative and effective way of sharing and gathering information.

Living in a democratic country like the Philippines, Filipinos have the right to see what is happening to their nation with transparency. Through the internet, it created an interconnection between truth, justice, and transparency. Newspaper agencies are now posting online news articles that can be accessed by any Filipino, allowing them to know what the real-time happenings are in their country. In just a second, a single Filipino can share credible information with thousands of Filipinos, up to millions of them. 

On the contrary, access to any information has raised privacy concerns for all users of the internet. This specific feature of the internet led people in some cases to experience cyberattacks and identity theft. This type of cybercrime can be the cause of the illegal trading and doings behind the internet. In line with this, these are also the tactics used by scammers.

Through online communication, information can be shared in an instant. But the internet’s vastness can overwhelm users due to information overload. This makes it more challenging for people to discern valuable insights from noise. While this is considered a boon, it also serves as a bane, as the information that may come from a person has the chance of not being credible and has low validity.

Media is considered the light of transparency for all people, but as the world evolves, it has become a place for people to share fake news, misinformation, and disinformation. Leading other people to believe in information that is not correctly constructed. Furthermore, people who are against the government can edit articles to make the whole nation believe in something that would ruin the image of the government. This spreads like a virus, especially if the people are not media, information, and technology literate.

Taking everything into account, The internet has revolutionized communication and information dissemination, making it essential for modern life. It has provided unparalleled access to information, democratizing communication and removing geographical divides. However, it also raises privacy concerns, leading to cyberattacks and identity theft. The internet's vastness can overwhelm users, making it difficult to discern valuable insights. Additionally, the media has become a platform for sharing fake news, misinformation, and disinformation, leading to a spread of false information and a negative image of the government.

This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things: They ain't remembering it lately

Digital(Online) Games refer to video or computer games that can be played through various electronic devices, such as computers, consoles, or mobile devices. These games are typically accessed and played over the internet, either individually or with other players in multiplayer mode. Digital (Online) Games have gained significant popularity in recent years due to advancements in technology and increased internet connectivity. They come in various genres, including action, adventure, role-playing, puzzle, strategy, and simulation games, among others. 

Online games can enhance cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and strategic planning. Many games require players to make quick decisions, analyze complex situations, and adapt to changing circumstances, thereby improving their cognitive abilities. Online games often involve tasks that require specific skills, such as hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and multitasking. 

Regular engagement with these games can help individuals develop and improve these skills, which can be beneficial in various real-life scenarios. Online games provide a platform for social interaction and collaboration. Multiplayer games allow players to connect and communicate with others, fostering teamwork, cooperation, and the development of social skills. These interactions can lead to the formation of friendships and communities. 

Engaging in online games can provide a form of stress relief and relaxation. Immersion in a game world can temporarily distract individuals from real-life pressures and challenges, allowing them to unwind and alleviate stress. Many online games incorporate educational elements, such as puzzles, quizzes, and simulations, to impart knowledge and promote learning. These games can be used as tools for education and skill development, making the learning process more engaging and enjoyable. 

NEGATIVE:

Digital (Online) Games can be highly addictive, leading to excessive and compulsive gaming behavior. This can result in neglect of other important aspects of life such as academics, work, relationships, and physical health. Excessive gameplay can lead to sedentary behavior, resulting in physical health problems such as obesity, musculoskeletal issues, and eye strain. 

Lack of physical activity and poor posture during long gaming sessions can have detrimental effects on overall health. Excessive gaming can lead to social isolation and withdrawal from real-life social interactions. Spending excessive time in the virtual world can hinder the development of social skills and reduce face-to-face interactions. Excessive gaming can negatively impact academic or work performance due to distraction, lack of focus, and decreased motivation to study or fulfill responsibilities. 

Engaging in late-night gaming sessions can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to sleep disorders such as insomnia. The stimulating nature of games can make it difficult for individuals to wind down before bedtime. Some studies suggest that exposure to violent or aggressive content in games can increase aggressive behavior in individuals, especially in younger players. However, the link between gaming and aggression remains controversial and further research is needed.

 

"They aren't gonna change this, we gotta do it ourselves." Taylor Swift sings in her song: Only The Young. As media, information, and technology advances along with civilization, consumers and producers of the aforementioned slowly realize how this song lyric relates to the contribution of literacy in a constant battle of what issues that exist in these three aspects. Media, Information, and Technology Literacy could serve as the door for opportunities that proper use of media, information, and technology could provide. However, literacy in media, information, and technology, or the lack thereof, also comes with its own share of threats and challenges.

One of the most prevalent threats illiteracy has is disinformation, misinformation, and malinformation. As media and technology makes information dissemination more convenient and accessible, the current and future generations are susceptible to the layman's term "fake news". Aside from that, the accessibility and convenience of information dissemination is slowly perpetuating information overload. Illiteracy in media, information, and technology makes it a challenge for the current generations to identify which information is valid and credible out of the daunting number of information that can be found in one single click. What's more threatening about this is the algorithmic bias that caters the spread of misinformation more.

In response, literacy in media, information, and technology provides opportunities in combating the challenges that threaten the responsible use of these three. Through media, information, and technology literacy, individuals are empowered to critically analyze and evaluate information, a skill that aforementioned challenges necessitate. Aside from that, producers learn how to utilize technology and different types of media to communicate information responsibly. Furthermore, this empowerment raises awareness of the digital citizenship and civic responsibility individuals possess as democratic consumers and producers of media, information, and technology. Thanks to media, information, and technology literacy, combating misinformation and cyberbullying, respecting individuals' privacy, and engaging in respectful discourse, is becoming more and more attainable. 

These are only a few examples of what opportunities, threats, and challenges that exist along with media, information, and technology literacy. With the use of media, information, and technology, society could achieve so much more, only if learned how to used responsibly, which highlights literacy and its capability to provide so much to consumers and producers of information. The opportunities literacy can provide to our society could not only combat the threat of misinformation, information overload, and algorithmic bias, but also empower the civic responsibility of individuals in the democratic utilization of media, information, and technology. However, this would only be made possible if individuals step up and aspire to become a media, information, and technology literate. And with that, may both consumers and producers become and influence others to become literate. After all, like the song lyric, "They aren't gonna change this, we gotta do it ourselves.".