Digital Transformation Lab reposted this
Understanding Algorithms: Are We Doing Enough to Educate Young People? The YouNDigital project has shed light on a crucial gap in digital literacy. While some young people have a basic understanding of how algorithms shape their news feeds, many lack the depth of knowledge needed to engage with this technology critically. Even those aware of algorithms often see them as distant or mysterious forces, leaving their influence unchallenged. 🔑 Key Insights from Research: Five Profiles of Understanding: Young people range from seeing algorithms as human-like entities (mystified and distant) to embracing their benefits without critical reflection. Alarmingly, a significant group has no awareness of algorithms at all. Self-Learning Dominates: Most rely on informal learning through social media, friends, or family. Schools are often absent, focusing only on technical aspects rather than on the broader societal implications of algorithms like bias, diversity, or privacy. Why This Matters: Without critical engagement, algorithms can reinforce biases, limit perspectives, and exclude diversity—turning tools of empowerment into drivers of inequality. 💡 Questions We Should Be Asking: How can we ensure that algorithm literacy becomes part of formal education? Should media platforms and influencers be more active in promoting digital literacy? What strategies can bridge the gap for those without access to structured learning opportunities? As algorithms increasingly shape the flow of information, they also influence how people perceive the world and engage with societal issues. This has profound implications for democratic participation and decision-making. 🗳 The Big Question: How can we equip young people to critically evaluate algorithmic influence and ensure that digital systems foster informed, inclusive democratic engagement rather than division? Nicolas Babin Mirko Ross Pierre Pinna Mia Shah-Dand Julia Kauppert 🚀 Ellen Schramke Judith Wiese Vernon Sankey Mei Lin Fung David Bray, PhD Paidi O Reilly Mia Shah-Dand Jorge Cunha Zeina Zakhour Rob van Kranenburg Jean-Baptiste Lefevre Dinis Guarda Claudia Mendes Silva Peter Koerte Rainer Brehm Margherita Adragna Oliver Kleinhenz Dr. Natalija Krivokapić Azita Esmaili Ulli Waltinger Thomas Power Efi Pylarinou Bjorn-Soren Gigler, PhD Scott Luton Ian Gertler Prof. Amanda Kirby MBBS MRCGP PhD FCGI Tamara McCleary Lauren C. Lobrano Paula Howard Katharina Pusar Philipp Bohn Neil Milliken Debra Ruh Puneet Singh Singhal #DigitalLiteracy #Algorithms #Education #YouthEngagement #Inclusion #CriticalThinking