#mda 20009

For this week’s topic, I would be talking about Media in China, what are the roles and how it affects the mindset of the people of China. Ok, to begin, I only got perspective as a tourist in China, but when years passed by and doubts, through Digital Communities tutorials started since day 1, I really have been thinking about it, the transparency, voices, bias and ideology in media, , it really got me thinking about China when I was there. I actually did not realize how fake it got when I was in China 10 years ago compared to the China now visited 2 years ago. So, I don’t have any experiences in rural China or any information about them because from what media/research say, China media shows prosperity in their country rather than being poor and hungry. But to me, in the main tourist provinces, they really cannot talk negatively about their country even if they wanted, the tour bus was probably being watched when the tour guide touched politics slightly and I could see they didn’t go further in about it because there are eyes watching. Yes, they actually proudly say that their tech is superb and always better in 10 years’ time, and for being a copy cat of American tech, as they claim that Americans gave these workers the knowledge how to make the tech and replicate it for the country to use. However, this is all context without research as this is what several tour guides has claimed during the tours I’ve been to.

I don’t really have a lot of China or overseas friends, only met one during my Primary school years, as a kid, smartphones weren’t cheap enough for everyone or stable for the public yet, so we do not know the existence Weibo, Taobao, Baidu or WeChat yet. So, he was going back to China at the end of year 6 of our studies, my dad and his dad are really good friends, we wanted to stay in touch, until… he told me, China doesn’t have Facebook anymore, I was like, then how am I going to contact you? So, he introduced me to their app, QQ, it is like an email, example of emails like Hotmail, Gmail and Yahoo. That’s when I then found out China closed their social media from the world, but the world could use their app to communicate to friends from China.

Same like today, when you want to see entertainment content from China, you use TikTok, WeChat and Weibo to look for entertainment from influencers or known as KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders), they are people or organizations with strong social status with good examples like political figures, columnists and social media celebrities. Personally, I do not use any of these, but I do follow a media called South China Morning Post. They do post some believable things and there are unbelievable as well, sadly don’t recall many news that I read online.

App controlling in China is very well heard of, but however, I feel the same when I use other social media apps as well, creating ads just for your preference. China media control on the other hand, it’s not all that simple, their system can censor post the government think its offensive or do not bring good values to the country, almost like imperfection is not an option or simply put it, perfectionist. As the very role of media in China is to instruct and educate the people morally as journalists are expected to promote certain “good” values and habits and discourage the “bad” ones.

In conclusion, a lot of things are hidden by the government either for the good of the public or making things worse, but for China, its not like they have a choice for transparent governing and media, are they good with what they have? I assume majority uses VPN too to access things outside from their own country as well, but so do we use VPN to access other countries webs as well. Due to language they actually don’t really the need for western apps to be left out, they almost got anything out of everything especially entertainment like idols, tv shows, movies, animations and social media platforms. It may affect some who are against the laws, but those unaffected actually goes on like us in our normal lives. 

This is the end of the blogs, and I really enjoyed this class a lot where I learnt tremendously about the world and issues we face, it really has opened up our cooped up minds of what we get and believe instead of looking only into one perspective, some things are hard to agree but the class teaches a sense of respecting others’ opinions as others might also have a hard time agreeing with you. I sincerely thanks everyone and Dr. Bertha for having this class despite being it being it on an online class session and covid-19 situation. 

List of references

Crampton, T,” Social Media in China: The Same but Different”. Thomas Crampton, viewed 20 November 2020. < http://www.thomascrampton.com/china/social-media-china-business-review/>

Social SEO, 2019, “KOL Influencer Marketing in China: What is WeChat, Weibo, Douyin TikTok, and Little Red Book?”. Social SEO, viewed 20 November 2020 < https://hello-73030.medium.com/kol-influencer-marketing-in-china-what-is-wechat-weibo-douyin-tiktok-and-little-red-book-a178cc534924>

Pinxteren, G, V, 2013 “Foreign Media on China: Beyond Positive and Negative reporting”. Clingendael, viewed 2o November 2020 < https://www.clingendael.org/publication/foreign-media-china-beyond-positive-and-negative-reporting>

We're all fans, even though some don't admit it. Being a fan of something doesn't only refer to idolizing a single band, or writing fantasy, but also cafes, and restaurants that you visit quite often.  According to Pearson (2010), fans are individuals that are fascinated with a specific place, celebrity, video, TV show, and somebody who can generate reams of knowledge regarding their fandom item. They also engage in communal events. 

i just so happen to be obsessed over The Witcher franchise, some would say a little too obsessed..... What can i say, There’s no thrill like slicing through mythical beasts and riding through medieval villages helping the poor, (or at least doing this virtually via my PS4 or watch henry cavil replicate it on Netflix).

All fans deserve to be in the culture. In the age of social media, group building has been simpler and several of them have been popular. A popular fandom right now, is the presidential election of the united states, Donald Trump has become a even bigger mean due to his rambunctious tweets and his iconic golden sloppy hair, and also his slogan “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN. 

Fans are frequently viewed unfairly by the media as possessing 'abnormal' obsessions with celebrities or nerding out on the things/people they're a fan of. However, fandom today is assumed as a  part of the daily life of 'average' individuals. Here is a short video explaining what fandom is all about.

The benefit of fandom is for certain individuals it is a gateway to escape from  reality and put all their problems aside for a short period of time and talk to people with mutual  interests about what they are passionate about, thus helping, tackle many public health issues such as depression and suicide (Weist 2017).

Fan Activism

 Fan activism can be described as a mode of civic activity and political participation that arises from the desires of the fandoms and the fan community. Fan advocacy will be a fan-driven initiative to participate and address civic, social and political concerns (teen vogue n.d.).

There is tremendous influence and ability for fan activism. Fandoms can be intellectual and political opposition to the heteronormative and patriarchal ideals of culture. The potential of the fan groups to assemble and organize in response to casting decisions, program cancellations, etc. is well known. These community organizing efforts are also being used to support movements for social justice and civil rights, encouraging young people to participate (weebly n.d.). 

The following video is an example of Netflix creating fan activism. 

References:

Pearson 2010, ‘Fandom in the Digital Era’, Popular Communication, vol. 1 , no . 2, p. 84-95

Weist 2017 , Psychologists Say That Belonging To A Fandom Is Amazing For Your Mental Health ,Teen vouge, viewed 11th November 2020, <https://www.teenvogue.com/story/psychologists-say-fandoms-are-amazing-for-your-mental-health>.  

In the vast digital environment, social gaming communities have become active gathering places where people connect and collaborate over a shared love of gaming. These online spaces offer unique benefits and drawbacks that profoundly shape gamers' social lives. As we navigate the intricacies of these communities, it becomes clear that while they provide a haven for social interaction and shared experiences, they also present challenges that require careful consideration. In this exploration, we will uncover the dual nature of social gaming communities and illuminate their role in promoting social life in the digital age.

Before we dive into it, If you are new to this concept, you can explore more about social gaming communities here. Now, let us delve into the complexities of these digital centres and examine the benefits and drawbacks of shaping gamers’ social lives in this unique realm.

The Benefits of Social Gaming Communities:

One of the most significant advantages of social gaming communities is the sense of belonging they cultivate (Molyneux et al., 2015). Within a global context characterized by considerable physical separation, virtual environments serve as a conduit for gamers to establish connections predicated on their mutual fondness for games (Dev, 2023). These online communities serve as digital environments where individuals from diverse backgrounds and locations can interact through multiplayer games, participate in discussions, and bond around each other's passion for gaming. (MetaEngine, 2023). Establishing a sense of community is especially vital in an era when in-person interactions may be scarce, allowing people to express themselves in a digital environment freely.

Moreover, the influence of gaming community collaboration and teamwork extends beyond virtual realms to affect real-world situations. Gamers develop a sense of community by learning to collaborate and assessing one another's strengths and weaknesses (Editor Team, 2022). This dynamic of collaboration reflects how personnel construct robust communities within the professional environment. Furthermore, the practical application of the communication proficiencies emphasized in gaming communities empowers individuals to articulate their thoughts and opinions with efficacy (SkillsYouNeed, 2023). For those who do not have strong offline social skills, gaming is a unique platform to communicate and connect with others. Essentially, the collaboration and communication skills developed in the game are seamlessly linked to real-world community building.

Furthermore, social gaming communities are essential for mental health and emotional support in addition to being places of enjoyment. People who use these online forums to exchange gaming experiences with one another develop a sense of camaraderie that helps them through difficult times. These communities provide a support network to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Concurrently, new research highlights the importance of the community and chat elements, particularly for lonely young men, providing an anonymous "third place" outside the house or workplace (Prochnow, 2023). This space allows individuals to open up, find empathy, and make important social connections that may be lacking in offline life. The combination of emotional support, shared experiences, and unique anonymity these communities offer highlights their profound impact on fostering a sense of belonging and supporting mental health.

The Drawbacks of Social Gaming Communities:

However, it also has some drawbacks, particularly the negative impact of anonymity and over-participation on users' mental health and overall gaming experience. This community can be a breeding ground for issues such as cyberbullying, cheating, and various health issues. For example, the shield of anonymity creates a toxic atmosphere by allowing users to express "rude language, severe criticisms, anger, hatred, and even threats." Most cyberbullying and aggressive behavior occurs from anonymous users, and the negative impact exceeds the negative impact of traditional face-to-face or known perpetrator cyberbullying. The privilege of anonymity perpetuates feelings of frustration, insecurity, and anxiety among victims, thereby intensifying their sense of helplessness in comparison to normal bullying scenarios. Bullies, who are often experienced gamers, use anonymity to intimidate new players, further exacerbating issues like bullying (Grazotis, 2018). Furthermore, excessive participation in online gaming is considered a long-standing problem, affecting mental health as well as physical and social aspects of life. This highlights the interconnected challenges within digital communities, emphasizing the need for responsible and respectful interactions to foster a positive and inclusive social environment within the dynamic landscape of social gaming.

Moreover, privacy is also a concern in digital communities, including social gaming ones. When we share personal information online, there is a risk of it being accessed or misused by others (Team, 2023). It is like being cautious about what we share with strangers—we do not want everyone to know everything about us. Digital communities play a role in our social lives, but exercising caution while using them and safeguarding personal information is important. This emphasizes that, even if these communities promote social contacts, users should be aware of their digital footprint to ensure a secure and safe online social environment.

In conclusion, the benefits and drawbacks combine to shape the delicate digital landscape. While these communities provide virtual havens for socialization, collaboration, and emotional support, they also require thoughtful consideration of potential challenges. The key is to strike a delicate balance—gaining the rewards of community building while mitigating the drawbacks of toxic anonymity and Privacy. As technology advances, the collective responsibility falls on the gaming community to create an environment where individuals can continue to find comfort, connection, and personal growth in an ever-expanding digital social environment.

What's your take on the impact of anonymity in online gaming communities? Share your thoughts and vote below.

Reference List

Dev, L. (2023). Why are gamers so passionate about the game industry? Quora. https://www.quora.com/Why-are-gamers-so-passionate-about-the-game-industry

Editor Team. (2022). Teamwork Gaming: The effects of playing video games on teamwork and team performance. Totem - the Feel Good Game. https://store.totemteam.com/blogs/news/teamwork-gaming-the-effects-of-playing-video-games-on-teamwork-and-team-performance

Grazotis, E. (2018). The Negative Effects of Anonymity and Excessive Participation in Online Gaming Communities. Debating Communities and Social Networks 2018 OUA conference. https://networkconference.netstudies.org/2018OUA/2018/04/23/the-negative-effects-of-anonymity-and-excessive-participation-in-online-gaming-communities/

MetaEngine. (2023, July 7). What is a Gaming Community and How to Build One. MetaEngine. https://www.metaengine.gg/blog/what-is-a-gaming-community-and-how-to-build-one

Molyneux, L., Vasudevan, K., & De Zúñiga, H. G. (2015). Gaming Social Capital: Exploring civic value in multiplayer video games. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 20(4), 381–399. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcc4.12123

Prochnow, T. (2023). Online gaming communities could provide a lifeline for isolated young men − new research. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/online-gaming-communities-could-provide-a-lifeline-for-isolated-young-men-new-research-211558#:~:text=This%20finding%20suggests%20the%20chat,may%20lack%20in%20real%20life

SkillsYouNeed. (2023). Video games and your communication skills. SkillsYouNeed. https://www.skillsyouneed.com/rhubarb/video-games-communication.html

Crowdsourcing

Crowdsourcing, which leverages the capabilities of the internet, social media, and smartphone applications, has developed into a formidable instrument that employs vast groups of individuals' combined expertise and efforts (Hargrave, 2022). This methodology demonstrates particular significance in disaster management and emergency response, providing an expandable and effective strategy for promptly and precisely collecting data. Crowdsourcing in responding to natural disasters such as fires, earthquakes, and floods has engaged communities worldwide. Diverse approaches have emerged from converging multiple theoretical frameworks and practical applications. These methodologies include technical expertise, techniques for gathering data from social networks, categorizing social media messages, analytical models derived from multiple sources, including videos, and a geographic-based approach to social media analysis. The goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of communications, utilize real-time data mining instruments, and produce forecasts derived from Twitter occurrences, all in the spatiotemporal Big Data analysis framework. This multidimensional framework illustrates the dynamic and evolving landscape of crowdsourcing in disaster management (Hunt & Specht, 2019).

As we begin this exploration, we will reveal how crowdsourced information can be a driving force in guiding personal safety, promoting neighbourly solidarity, and promoting effective communication in times of crisis.

Getting to Safety:

During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, crowdsourced information was vital in guiding people to safety (Yang et al., 2019).

Through social media, ordinary citizens disseminate real-time updates regarding road closures, flooded areas, and alternate routes (Chien, 2019). This collective effort helps individuals cope with dangerous situations and facilitates community-led responses by providing information and links to shelters, safe gathering points and essential resources.

Furthermore, apps like Waze, which were once designed for navigation, have developed into platforms where users can exchange real-time information about hazards, accidents, and road conditions (Dev Technosys, 2022). This instance exemplifies the potential of ordinary individuals uniting in times of crisis, demonstrating how crowdsourced information can serve as a lifeline.

Assisting Those in Need:

Crowdsourcing information not only guides individuals to safety; It also fosters a sense of community and encourages people to lend a helping hand (Linnell, 2014). For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, countless examples emerged of neighbours using online platforms to assist those in need. For example, #benderaputih groups were formed on Facebook to share addresses for assistance and information on local food banks, with Malaysians in need flying white flags outside their residences to indicate distress. The digital community, including neighbours, personalities, and businesses, responded by donating food and other necessities, demonstrating the power of crowdsourced information to bring communities together in times of crisis (BBC News, 2021).

Communication of Important Information:

It is critical to communicate effectively in times of crisis (Energy, 2023). During the COVID-19 pandemic, crowdsourced information is crucial in building community resilience (Jewett et al., 2021). People use social media to share real-time updates about testing centre locations, vaccine availability and changes in public health (Medford et al., 2020). This decentralized approach compensates for delays in official communication, allowing individuals to make informed decisions quickly. This collaboration demonstrates the power of crowdsourced information in bridging communication gaps and ensuring important updates are quickly provided to the public during a crisis.

Challenges and Considerations:

Although the undeniable power of crowdsourcing information is present, it also comes with challenges. Rapid dissemination of information through crowdsourcing can be a double-edged sword (Hanine & Steils, 2018). Misinformation and rumours can easily spread during times of crisis, resulting in confusion and potentially dangerous behaviour (Oh, 2013). It is imperative that users exercise critical judgment when confronted with information and only rely on reputable sources to prevent their participation in the propagation of false information.

In conclusion, crowdsourcing information is a powerful force in crisis response. It demonstrates the power of collective action by directing individuals to safety during crises such as Hurricane Harvey and by nurturing neighbourly solidarity throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As shown by real-time updates on social media, it provides enhanced communication, allowing individuals to make informed decisions quickly. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges of crowdsourcing, particularly the potential for misinformation to spread rapidly. The power of crowdsourced information must be used responsibly, and users must exercise critical judgment and rely on reputable sources to prevent the spread of false information. While crowdsourcing has challenges, its potential to mobilize the public to take action in times of crisis is enormous. As we navigate an evolving technological environment, the collective power of crowdsourced information must be harnessed responsibly to ensure it continues to be a force for positive and impactful collective action.

What are your thoughts on the role of crowdsourced information in mobilizing the public during times of crisis, such as natural disasters or epidemics? Please share your views and experiences below. Have you ever witnessed or been involved in a crowdsourcing effort for safety, assistance a collective effort, or communicating in challenging situations?

Reference List

BBC News. (2021). Malaysians in Covid lockdown fly white flags to ask for help. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57717214

Chien, J. (2019). Validating the quality of crowdsourced data for flood modeling of Hurricane Harvey in Houston, Texas. https://digital.library.txst.edu/items/133a9af2-62bb-4579-9691-1c7a27635ef8

Dev Technosys. (2022, May 27). Navigation App like Waze | GPS Tracking App Development. Dev Technosys. https://devtechnosys.com/app-of-the-week/waze-app.php

Energy, E. C. (2023, November 1). Crisis Communication Planning A Key Element of Disaster Recovery. Utilities One. https://utilitiesone.com/crisis-communication-planning-a-key-element-of-disaster-recovery

Hanine, S., & Steils, N. (2018). Crowdsourcing: A Double-Edged Sword Outsourcing Strategy. In InTech eBooks. https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.74531

Hargrave, M. (2022). Crowdsourcing: Definition, how it works, types, and examples. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/crowdsourcing.asp

Hunt, A. R., & Specht, D. (2019). Crowdsourced mapping in crisis zones: collaboration, organisation and impact. Journal of International Humanitarian Action, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41018-018-0048-1

Jewett, L., Mah, S. M., Howell, N. A., & Larsen, M. M. (2021). Social Cohesion and Community Resilience During COVID-19 and Pandemics: A Rapid Scoping Review to inform the United Nations Research Roadmap for COVID-19 Recovery. International Journal of Health Services, 51(3), 325–336. https://doi.org/10.1177/0020731421997092

Pohling, R., Bzdok, D., Eigenstetter, M., Stumpf, S., & Strobel, A. (2015b). What is Ethical Competence? The Role of Empathy, Personal Values, and the Five-Factor Model of Personality in Ethical Decision-Making. Journal of Business Ethics, 137(3), 449–474. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-015-2569-5

China’s Ban on Western Social Media Platforms:

The Online population of China has hit a pivotal point. The Chinese government reported about 882 million users are currently actively using the Internet, which is 57.7% of the population (Thomala 2020). However, China has been blocked from accessing Western social media sites. Access to world famous, social media sites such as YouTube, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook is NON EXISTENT ! All these regulations are classified as ‘China's Great Firewall’, and it is the biggest censorship scheme in the world. It is a collaborative initiative between government monitors and technological and telecommunications providers who are required to apply the state law. It began in the year 2000 and now the government has hired over 50,000 individuals to impose the censorship, block websites that it disapproves and pressure search engines to filter material that is considered malicious (Bamman 2012).

Instead the Chinese entrepreneurs have created their own versions to cater to the local market. Popular social platforms in China are WeChat and Ren Ren (Fong 2016). 

China social credit system:

China first introduced the "social credit scheme" in 2014, and it is anticipated that the system will be completely enforced nationally by 2020.

How does the government keep track of the actions of its citizens?

Surveillance cameras are installed throughout the nation, law enforcement officers use AI-powered wearable technology and drones to track people. Two of China's largest firms, Tencent and Alipay, also have government statistics on citizens' actions by keeping track of how they use the service (Diamond 2018).

PROS and CONS

The Government insists that the purpose of the credit scheme is to improve the honest mindset and credit rate of the whole population (China Copyright and Media 2014). It seems to have succeeded, as one resident said, "I feel that in the last six months, people's attitude has gotten progressively better, for starters, when we drive, now we're always going to stop in front of crosswalks. If you don't stop, you're going to lose credit points. Initially, we were just concerned about losing points, but overtime we have adapted to this change (Cheng n.d.).

Others however, fear that the credit system is too much to manage.

People lose points if they smoke in non-smoking zones, drive poorly, post lies and misinformation (SustainSU n.d.), do not see elderly parents on a daily basis and many more.

The social credit scheme will compensate and prosecute individuals on the basis of their credit score. Many of the fines include:

Restrictions on travel

Banning you or your children from the better universities

More challenging to find a career

Public embarrassment

Is the Social Credit Scheme a way to instill positive conduct and provide people with security? (MY OPINION)

Can you foresee the humiliation being applied to your children because you don't have a decent social score? It's wrong, I guess, because who you are doesn't characterize your children.  I don't believe that children should be refused a spot in prestigious schools if their parents have a bad social  score.

In comparison, I think the blacklist is ridiculous. I'm sure, it's reasonable to punish people for committing  crimes, but I believe it's unfair to put people on the blacklist. What if these people just want to change? By having them on the blacklist, it makes it impossible for them to turn for the better, since most things, such as getting a career, are literally rejected.

REFERNCES:

Thomola 2020,  Number of social media users in China 2017-2025, Statista 2020, viewed 18th November 2020, <https://www.statista.com/statistics/277586/number-of-social-network-users-in-china/#:~:text=In%202019%2C%20there%20were%20around,world's%20biggest%20social%20media%20market.>.

Fung 2016,  6 CHINESE SOCIAL MEDIA SITES YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT, viewed 18th November 2020, <http://blog.tutorming.com/business/chinese-social-media-sites>.

Bamman 2012, Censorship of social media in viewed 18th November 2020, <China, https://firstmonday.org/article/view/3943/3169>.

Diamond 2018,  China's Surveillance State Should Scare Everyone, viewed 18th November 2020, <https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2018/02/china-surveillance/552203/>.

CHeng n.d., Chinese Social Credit System (II): risks and prospects , viewed 18th November 2020, <https://polikracia.com/chinese-social-credit-system-i/>.

Social gaming first took off on Facebook a couple of years ago. Remember Farmville? Words with friends ?   That was the golden age of interactive gaming but many of you may still be enjoying such games. Constant requests to access these kinds of games have died down, but there are already all kinds of interactive media titles with broader audiences today.

Hang on a minute, what's social gaming? What is a social game and what makes it different compared to other games? Simple, you might say, a social game is a Facebook game. But it isn't that simple. Not all Facebook games are the same and what about games on other social media platforms? Call of Duty has a powerful and experienced multiplayer community could that be called a social game?

As we can see, describing social gaming isn't that easy. Yet it is a vital term to recognize within the context of a fast developing, evolving market. So let's get acquainted with some other gaming terms that could help us work together to better describe social games  (BUFF 2018).

Casual Gaming

Many of the games you'll find on social media will also easily be called casual games. They don't need a lot of experience or any special ability to be good at. Typically, they have a premium version if they're not absolutely free. They're not technically heavy either, and they seem to be played often, but in limited sessions (Hope 2018).

A great example of casual gaming are indie gaming titles such as candy crush. Back in 2016 this game took up majority of my time but now a days i hate seeing people play that game, oh the trauma that game has caused me i s mind boggling. I’ve spent a considerable amount of money on the in game purchases, just to get to the next level.... smh.

Sharing:

Next up we have Sharing which the most significant aspect in social gaming. It's similar to and different from, multiplayer games like Call of Duty. Social games are multiplayer, of course, in the strict sense of the term, but they come from a multiplayer with a different approach (Synclarity n.d.). Social games are usually structured around more casual contact between participants. Sharing items, exchanging compliments, ranking your mates, and encouraging new players to participate are an important part of most multiplayer games.

Toxicity of Social gaming:

Research has shown that many video games depict prejudices against women, and the content can promote sexism. For example women are traditionally underrepresented in video games. They are portrayed as beautiful humans, sexual slavery and obscene. Women were depicted as sex objects by showing nude or partly revealing clothes. In a machine review of 47 randomly chosen games, female characters wore low-cut clothes and the cleavage could be seen ( MUSTOFA  2018).

Simulation or a monetization?

As online distribution has become much more popular, it is converted into digital downloads that can offer massive new additions or update small content at a fixed price. As the presence of online gaming grows, new monetization techniques have been created. Some games offer monthly subscriptions to play on game servers, allowing fees to access experience bonus content are all called microtransactions ( Bin Fang, Qiang Ye and Goes 2019 ).

A perfect example of monetarization, of social gaming, is the launch of the PS5. I have been a fan of Sony ever since the release of the PlayStation one, As soon as they announced that the PS% was being released on November 12th i did everything in my power to ensure that i get my hands on one of the consoles asap! As i’m writing htis it has been exactly 24 hours since i collected my PS5 i did not purchase any game titles as they advertised that it was backwards compatible and would run PS4 games at a higher framerate (plus i was broke:/),  however i realized that in order to play these PS4 games on the PS5 you need to pay a conversion fee of $5 to $15 depending on the tile.

And here i am writing this blog hoping that my dad buys me a PS5 game soon, cuz i aint got no cash ...... till then imma cry myself to sleep:’) 

References :

Bin Fang, Qiang Ye and Goes 2019 , ‘Social Influence and Monetization of Freemium Social Games’,  Management information systems , vol.36, no.3, pp 730-754

Buff 2018, What exactly are social games and what makes them different? , viewed 13th November 2020, <https://medium.com/buff-game/what-exactly-are-social-games-and-what-makes-them-different-e24623382558>.

MUSTOFA  2018, Toxic Behavior in Online Gaming, Is it Necessary? ,viewed 13th November 2020, <https://hybrid.co.id/post/toxic-behavior-in-online-gaming-is-it-necessary#:~:text=Toxic%20is%20a%20choice&text=The%20type%20of%20toxic%20behavior,%2C%20cheating%2C%20and%20many%20more.>.

In the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, governments worldwide, including China, intensified surveillance measures to curb the virus's spread. In this context, China's implementation of stringent surveillance, notably through Health Code Apps, has raised profound concerns about its impact on online communities. As facial recognition and data collection become intrinsic to daily life, the potential repercussions on digital spaces and the people within them demand careful examination. This discussion delves into the multifaceted consequences of increased surveillance by the Chinese government and its tangible effects on the dynamics of online communities.

Privacy Erosion

In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, various countries implemented measures to track and control the virus's spread, introducing tools such as contact tracing apps (Ojokoh et al., 2022), temperature checks (Qu & Lv, 2021) and travel restrictions (Burns et al., 2021). Simultaneously, In China, where stringent surveillance measures were already in place, the government leveraged technology to an even greater extent, using facial recognition and health QR codes to monitor citizens' movements. This involved the deployment of a series of applications known as "Health Code Apps," which have raised concerns about privacy erosion, particularly regarding the use of health code applications. Online communities are not immune to this erosion, as the data collected through these apps includes personal information, health status, and location details. This data is then utilized to assign one of three colours, indicating the user's health status (Ramos, 2020). However, Data is funnelled to entities like the provincial Big Data Bureau, Alibaba, and the telecommunications department, expanding the accessibility to user information, ranging from personal details to health status, location, and device specifics. This centralized model amplifies the risks of data aggregation and user re-identification, exemplified by the Beijing Health Bao system's data leak in December 2020. The incident exposed the photographs, ID numbers, and nucleic acid test information of celebrities, highlighting insufficient safeguards in place (Zhang, 2022). Online communities may find their members exposed to privacy breaches, leading to a chilling effect on open communication and expression within these digital spaces.

Potential for Abuse of Power:

The potential for the abuse of power in the context of surveillance, inadequate transparency and compliance measures is a significant concern for online communities as well. This concern is exemplified by recent events in Henan Province, where health code apps were allegedly manipulated to suppress protests related to potential losses in rural banks on the brink of collapse (Zhang, 2022). The legitimacy of these health code apps faced a setback as city officials marked over a thousand individuals as red, restricting their entry into Zhengzhou City and highlighting the vulnerability of such systems to misuse (Zhang, 2022). This incident underscores the potential for health code apps, initially designed for public health purposes, to transform into tools of surveillance, allowing government agencies to exert control under the guise of maintaining public health. The lack of stringent transparency requirements heightens the risk of these technologies being misused for purposes beyond their intended scope, which negatively impacts the freedom of expression within online communities. As governments exploit surveillance tools to monitor and influence online discussions, online communities may face challenges related to censorship and control, further emphasising the interconnected nature of surveillance concerns and their impact on digital spaces.

Technological Dependence:

Embracing extensive surveillance often involves a reliance on advanced technologies. In the case of Health Code Apps, facial recognition technology is integrated into residential area access control systems, permitting entry only to those with a green code (Ramos, 2020), which has implications for online communities. This reliance on advanced technologies may neglect more human-centric approaches to online interaction, potentially excluding or disadvantaging certain members of digital communities. As surveillance technologies become integral to online platforms, the balance between security measures and preserving the inclusivity and diversity of online communities becomes a critical consideration.

Trust Deficit:

The colour-coded system assigned by health code applications has far-reaching consequences for millions of users in their interactions within both physical and online communities. Requiring individuals to display their health codes in public transportation, shopping malls, markets, and other public places may contribute to a trust deficit between citizens and the online platforms they engage with (Jao et al., 2020). Users within online communities may question the motives behind such surveillance measures, especially if their personal information is shared without their knowledge. Rebuilding trust within online communities, once eroded by mandatory health code reliance, poses a considerable challenge, impacting the dynamics of digital social spaces.

In conclusion, the surge in surveillance by the Chinese government amid the global COVID-19 pandemic undeniably leaves a lasting imprint on online communities. The colour-coded system mandated by health code applications not only infiltrates public spaces but also infiltrates the very essence of digital interactions. This imposition triggers a tangible trust deficit within online communities as individuals question the motives behind these surveillance measures. Rebuilding trust within these virtual spaces, essential for vibrant and open communication, becomes a formidable challenge in the aftermath of mandatory health code reliance. The delicate equilibrium between bolstering security measures and safeguarding the inclusivity of online communities emerges as the linchpin for preserving the dynamic and diverse nature of these digital spaces. In essence, the impact of increased surveillance by the Chinese government is intimately intertwined with the well-being and resilience of online communities.

"Considering the implications of increased surveillance by the Chinese government during the global COVID-19 pandemic on online communities, we'd like to hear your perspective. How do you perceive the effects on privacy erosion, potential abuse of power, technological dependence, and the trust deficit within these digital spaces? Share your insights and cast your vote below."

Reference List

Burns, J., Movsisyan, A., Stratil, J. M., Biallas, R. L., Coenen, M., Emmert-Fees, K., Geffert, K., Hoffmann, S., Horstick, O., Laxy, M., Klinger, C., Kratzer, S., Litwin, T., Norris, S. L., Pfadenhauer, L. M., Von Philipsborn, P., Sell, K., Stadelmaier, J., Verboom, B., . . . Rehfuess, E. (2021). International travel-related control measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic: a rapid review. The Cochrane Library, 2021(3). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd013717.pub2

Jao, N., Cohen, D., & Udemans, C. (2020). How China is using QR code apps to contain Covid-19. TechNode. https://technode.com/2020/02/25/how-china-is-using-qr-code-apps-to-contain-covid-19/

Ojokoh, B. A., Aribisala, B. S., Sarumi, O. A., Gabriel, A. J., Omisore, O. M., Taiwo, A. E., Igbe, T., Chukwuocha, U. M., Yusuf, T. A., Afolayan, A., Babalola, O., Adebayo, T., & Afolabi, O. (2022). Contact Tracing Strategies for COVID-19 Prevention and Containment: A scoping review. Big Data and Cognitive Computing, 6(4), 111. https://doi.org/10.3390/bdcc6040111

Qu, J., & Lv, X. (2021). The response measures to the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak in China. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 8(2). https://doi.org/10.1093/ofid/ofab014

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URL link : https://www.paho.org/en/topics/coronavirus-infections/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/social-media-cards-adolescents-and-covid

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we access information, and it's more relevant than ever to explore the role of social media in this context. Social media has emerged as a powerful tool for spreading information related to COVID-19, and we're taking a closer look at its impact in Malaysia.

Social Media as an Information Dissemination Tool

URL Link : https://www.wheninmanila.com/ol-access-social-media-as-a-tool-for-information-dissemination/

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp have become primary sources of news and information for many people. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of these platforms has skyrocketed. People turn to social media to get updates on the latest statistics, guidelines, and news related to the virus.

The Benefits

Rapid Dissemination: Social media allows for the rapid sharing of information. Health authorities and government agencies can quickly update the public about new developments and safety measures.

Global Connectivity: It facilitates global connectivity. Information about COVID-19 in one country can easily reach a worldwide audience. This has allowed for the sharing of knowledge, best practices, and solidarity.

User-Generated Content: Social media empowers users to share their experiences, concerns, and ideas. This can foster a sense of community and shared responsibility in the fight against the virus.

The Challenges

Misinformation: The rapid spread of information on social media can lead to the dissemination of false or misleading information. This can be dangerous during a public health crisis.

Information Overload: The abundance of information can be overwhelming, making it difficult for individuals to discern credible sources from unverified ones.

Social Media's Role in Malaysia

Malaysia, like many other countries, has seen both positive and negative effects of social media in disseminating COVID-19 information.

Positive Aspects

Government Engagement: The Malaysian government has actively used social media to engage with the public. Regular updates from the Ministry of Health and Prime Minister's Office have helped keep the population informed.

Community Support: Malaysians have used social media to organize community support groups, share resources, and provide emotional support to those affected by the pandemic.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Social media has been a crucial tool in promoting public awareness campaigns. Information on mask-wearing, social distancing, and vaccination drives has been shared extensively.

Challenges in Malaysia

Misinformation: Malaysia has also faced issues with the spread of misinformation. Rumors and unverified claims have caused confusion and anxiety. Addressing this challenge is an ongoing effort, with government agencies and organizations working to provide accurate information.

Language Barriers: Malaysia is a multicultural and multilingual country, and not all COVID-19 information is accessible to everyone due to language barriers. Translation efforts and multilingual content creation are vital to reach all segments of the population.

Community Initiatives

One remarkable aspect of Malaysia's response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been the emergence of community-driven initiatives on social media.

Volunteer Networks: Numerous volunteer networks have formed through social media platforms. These volunteers assist with tasks such as food delivery, providing information to those in need, and supporting healthcare workers.

Resource Sharing: Malaysians have taken to social media to share information about where to find essential supplies, provide emotional support, and offer guidance on COVID-19 testing and vaccination centers.

Mental Health Support: Recognizing the emotional toll of the pandemic, individuals and organizations have used social media to provide mental health resources, helplines, and online support groups.

Conclusion

Social media has played a significant role in spreading information on COVID-19, both in Malaysia and around the world. While it offers rapid dissemination and global connectivity, it also poses challenges related to misinformation and information overload. To navigate this digital landscape effectively, it is crucial for individuals to critically assess the information they encounter, and for governments and organizations to utilize social media responsibly as a tool for public communication during such crises.