In this book, we describe the online world that youth begin to encounter, often without adult oversight. It is a critical time where they are first getting to know both the outside world and form their own identity. We explain the social forces and sways that influence kids' attitudes and choices, from peers in social apps to influencers. We show how the online world suggests answers that may or may not be right for individuals. Each chapter we supplies lessons that teachers, parents, counselors, and others can use to make youth aware of these online sways.
Jim Wasserman is a former business litigation attorney and, for over twenty years, media literacy, economics, and Humanities teacher. He has written extensively on education generally and media literacy specifically, including a three-book series on how to introduce media literacy to elementary, middle, and high school students. Jiab Wasserman is a former industrial engineer and bank executive, becoming a vice president at Bank of America. Since retiring, she has become a trail blazer in advocating for gender, ethnic, and immigrant equity in the workplace and in education. She has written about the financial world and financial practices for several years and continues to be a regular contributor on the subject.
"Media literacy is the most important skill and learning it should be fun. The fun of The Social Media Diet: Helping Young People to Be Smart Consumers Online is that it invites students to use themselves, their friends and families as research subjects as they become more media aware and literate."--Neil Andersen, President, Association for Media Literacy The Social Media Diet provides a feast when it comes to examples of how media work to persuade us each and every day. This book gives teachers tools for teaching discernment, and students gain a peek behind the media curtain that often obscures their ability to distinguish fact from fiction and reality from narratives."--Tessa Jolls, President, Center for Media Literacy The Social Media Diet tackles the impact of social media on decision-making, a topic that resonates deeply with today's youth. By delving into the art and science of decision-making in relation to social media, this book equips young minds with the critical thinking skills necessary to make informed choices and develop healthy media habits.--Dr. Wisanu Tuntawiroon, board member and Chairman of Information Technology Management, Government Savings Bank, and advisor on information technology, Office of the Auditor General, Thailand
