Question 1: Define 'new media' and explain two key differences between new media and traditional media.

Answer: New media refers to digital forms of communication such as social media, websites, and apps that allow interactive and instant content sharing. Key differences include interactivity (new media allows user participation, unlike traditional media which is primarily one-way) and immediacy (new media provides instant updates, whereas traditional media has longer production times).

Question 2: Describe how social media platforms can influence young people's perceptions of body image.

Answer: Social media platforms often showcase idealized images and lifestyles, which can lead young people to compare themselves negatively, fostering insecurities and body dissatisfaction. The constant exposure to curated content may influence their perceptions of what is considered attractive or normal.

Question 3: Explain the concept of 'digital divide' in relation to new media and society.

Answer: The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and the internet and those who do not, often due to socioeconomic, geographical, or educational barriers, leading to inequalities in information access and opportunities.

Question 4: Identify and explain one positive and one negative impact of new media on social relationships.

Answer: A positive impact is that new media allows people to maintain connections across long distances, fostering social support. A negative impact is that it can lead to superficial interactions, reducing face-to-face communication skills and potentially causing loneliness.

Question 5: Discuss how new media can contribute to the formation of online communities and social identity.

Answer: New media enables individuals to find and join online communities based on shared interests or identities, which can strengthen social bonds and provide a sense of belonging. It also allows users to express their identities more freely and explore different aspects of themselves.

Question 6: Draw a simple diagram illustrating the process of information dissemination in social media, including the roles of users as content creators and consumers.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a network of interconnected nodes representing users. Some nodes are labeled as 'content creators' (posting or sharing content), while others are 'content consumers' (viewing, liking, sharing). Arrows indicate the flow of information from creators to consumers, with some users acting as both.

Question 7: Evaluate the impact of algorithms used by social media platforms on user experience and society.

Answer: Algorithms personalize content to increase user engagement, which can enhance user experience by showing relevant posts. However, they can also create echo chambers, reinforce stereotypes, or promote sensational content, influencing societal attitudes and polarization.

Question 8: Identify two ways in which new media has changed the way news is shared and consumed in society.

Answer: First, news can now be shared instantly via social media, bypassing traditional news outlets. Second, users can contribute to news reporting through citizen journalism, providing diverse perspectives.

Question 9: Explain how the rise of influencers on social media has affected consumer behavior and marketing strategies.

Answer: Influencers can sway their followers' opinions and purchasing decisions through personal endorsements, making them valuable for targeted marketing. This has shifted advertising from traditional media to peer-based, relatable content on social media platforms.

Question 10: Discuss one ethical concern associated with new media and how it might impact society.

Answer: One ethical concern is privacy invasion, as personal data is collected and used for targeted advertising or surveillance. This can lead to misuse of information, loss of anonymity, and mistrust in digital platforms, impacting societal perceptions of safety and privacy.