Choose 2 types of social media from this list:
Social networking
Social news
Media (Newsworthy) sharing
Microblogging/Influencing
Online forum sites
Social review sites
Crowdsourcing
Address these as social media types, not specific brand platforms.
Then, choose 2 specific social media platforms for each type of social media you selected. Some examples include:
TikTok
Instagram
Facebook
Reddit
Nextdoor
YouTube
Pinterest
Snapchat
Meet Up
Other - one that you use
For each platform, address the following:
What is the platform’s purpose?
How do people typically use the platform? Provide examples.
What are possible ethical challenges associated with using the platform?
Sample Answer
When selecting social media types, it is important to distinguish between the broad category (the "type") and the specific applications (the "platforms") we use to interact with them. In 2026, these boundaries have blurred as platforms become "super-apps," but their core functions remain distinct.
Type 1: Social Networking
Definition: Social networking focuses on building and maintaining personal or professional relationships. The core value is the "connection" between people who usually have some real-world or shared-interest link.
Platform A: Facebook
Purpose: To connect with friends, family, and local communities through shared updates, groups, and events. In 2026, it serves heavily as a "digital scrapbook" and a hub for specialized communities (Groups).
Typical Use: Users post life milestones (weddings, births), organize neighborhood events via Facebook Events, or join niche groups (e.g., "Backyard Beekeeping") to exchange advice.