Think Before You Click Promoting Media Awareness And Kindness

Bonisiwe Shabane

-Nov 18, 2025, 10:31 PM

think before you click promoting media awareness and kindness

© 2025 Prezi Inc. Terms & Privacy Policy © 2025 Prezi Inc. Terms & Privacy Policy In today’s hyperconnected world, young people are growing up with a screen in one hand and the world at their fingertips. The Philippines ranks among the top countries in global social media usage, with an average of 9 hours and 14 minutes online per day.

While this connectivity allows youth to learn, express, and connect more than ever, it also comes with unseen costs. A 2024 study by the Philippine Mental Health Association found that 62% of Filipino teens say social media affects their self-esteem, while one in three report sleep loss due to late-night scrolling. Similarly, research by the University of the Philippines Population Institute (UPPI) warns that nearly one in five youth aged 15–24 have considered self-harm, citing digital stress, comparison, and isolation as contributing factors. These numbers reflect more than just statistics — they tell a story of a generation trying to navigate identity, belonging, and truth in an online world that moves faster than reflection. Recognizing this growing challenge, FundLife, an organization committed to empowering young people through education, mentorship, and opportunity, continues to create spaces where youth can pause, reflect, and rebuild healthy digital habits. On October 18, 2025, FundLife hosted “Think Before You Click: Building a Responsible Digital You”, a full-day interactive workshop led by Cindy Jade Seares, FundLife’s Communications Manager.

Held at FundLife’s Tacloban City office, the workshop gathered 20 participants — girls and boys from Cabcungan National High School, Sagkahan National High School, and FundLife youth mentors. With an incoming crush of cutting-edge AI tools and more than 10,0000 websites created every hour, information is more accessible than ever. Anyone with an internet connection can find online “sources” on nearly any subject and share them on social media platforms. Bogus stories and fake videos are only a click away, which is why media literacy has become an indispensable skill. “Media can amplify harmful messages and bad behaviors, mislead and confuse people, recruit and unite extremist elements, and be used in unintended ways,” said Grant Kien, Cal State East Bay professor of communication. “It can be hard even for experts to keep up with rapid changes in technology and trends, so media literacy gives us a basic toolkit that we can use to judge any media content...

According to Kien, who studies media and its impact, people need to maintain a healthy skepticism and think about the message’s creator, format, audience, content and purpose before deciding whether to believe and/or proliferate... When it comes to social media, studies have shown that 59 percent of all links shared on social networks aren't actually clicked on at all. Kien says there are five tips he has for anyone on social media. Kien says it isn’t just personal policing, we also need to watch our children as they navigate a world where algorithms are leveraged to captivate them with inexhaustible streams of content. If we are not media literate, how can we expect our children to be able to discern the truth and balance the need for technology with health and safety? He advises parents to monitor and limit their children's media use.

If they resist you regulating it, he says that's understandable since apps are designed to keep us scrolling and engaged. Social media is everywhere, from Facebook and TikTok to YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter/X. It connects us to people, information, and ideas faster than ever before. But with this power comes responsibility. In this WebQuest, you’ll dive into the world of social media to understand its influence, impact, and ethical use. You’ll explore how it affects our thinking, relationships, and even our mental health, and create a campaign to promote safe and responsible use of social media among students.

You will work in groups to create an informative campaign (in the form of a video, digital poster, or presentation) that highlights both the benefits and risks of social media. Your goal is to raise awareness and encourage responsible use of these platforms in your school or community. A campaign material (e.g., a short video, infographic, or poster) Group yourselves (3–5 members per team). Social media’s influence on identity and self-image Today's children and teens are surrounded by more information than any generation before them.

Through Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more, students access news and information at lightning speed, but not everything they see online is true or helpful. This week (October 27-31) is Global Media and Information Literacy Week, and we're highlighting the importance of teaching young people to think critically about what they read, watch, and share. Media and information literacy (MIL) is the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and share information responsibly across different forms of media—from news articles and advertisements to social media videos and posts. For students, it means learning to ask questions, recognize bias, and think critically before sharing or believing content. For parents and teachers, MIL is an essential part of preparing young people for the real world by helping them become thoughtful citizens who engage with media ethically, creatively, and confidently in an ever-changing... At school, teaching media and information literacy doesn't have to be limited to social studies or technology classes.

MIL is a cornerstone of modern education, and it touches every area of learning. In language arts, students may analyze tone, bias, and perspective in literature and nonfiction. In math or statistics, they might examine how graphs, percentages, and survey data can be framed to persuade an audience. In the sciences, they can learn to distinguish between credible, peer-reviewed research studies and viral misinformation or pseudoscience. By integrating media awareness across subjects, teachers can help students connect classroom knowledge with the information they encounter every day. They begin to see that facts gain meaning only when placed in context, and that the responsible use of information is our shared responsibility.

Every scroll, click, and share can shape the way children view the world. Without strong critical thinking skills, it’s easy to mistake misinformation for fact. MIL encourages active participation in healthy online environments, rather than passive consumption of content. Before sharing information or reacting, it's important to pause and ask key questions: A beautiful reminder from ICT Awareness Group. Being able to communicate with people despite of distance with the help of social media, create outputs, file, and documents and an easier access to software and applications that are essential in an individual’s...

Together with this visible contributions and functions of a computer are the limitations which limit us in doing productive things only and no other wicked actions. the 10 commandments of computer ethics was created to guide every computer-user to be responsible for his/her actions. the written commandments are for the betterment of every individual in the society considering that we are now in the 21st Century Generation. In addition, it is very important for us to follow it since it enables us to be free from any danger that might harm us if we do things otherwise from the given ethics. Also, it will bring peace, order, understanding, and respect when one follows the correct usage of a computer. However, difficulties in following some of the commandments of computer ethics were present to some people.

One of the ethics that were difficult to follow is the “Thou shalt not snoop around in other people’s computer files”. Due to people’s curiosity, others spy on someone’s computer data and we all know that reading someone’s personal messages is wrong and it is already invading someone’s privacy Another thins is the “Thou shalt... Some people weren’t able to remember this due to a person’s feelings that overlapped the words ‘consideration and respect’. Some were using abusive language to express their feeling PUBLICLY not considering the under aged social-media users and passing irresponsible remarks about others, people forget the word ‘limitation’. We may be free to use computers and other electronic gadgets but everyone of us should instill in our minds that freedom comes with a great responsibility and discipline that we must show not... We should not use it to achieve unjust ends just for personal benefits but rather use it wisely and productively for a better and peaceful society.

So as a reminder, ‘always think before you click’. In an era dominated by technological advancements and constant connectivity, the necessity for digital mindfulness has become increasingly important. Digital mindfulness refers to the practice of being aware of one’s online behavior and the impact it has on oneself and others. This consciousness is crucial, especially in an environment where impulsive reactions to digital content can have far-reaching effects. Our immediate responses to social media posts, comments, and messages often stem from a place of emotional reaction rather than introspection, leading to potential misunderstandings or conflict. When individuals engage with digital content without pausing to reflect, the likelihood of unintentional harm increases.

A hasty comment can escalate into a larger disagreement, while sharing contentious articles or misinformation can propagate false narratives. Digital mindfulness encourages users to take a moment to evaluate their feelings and intentions before engaging online. This pause offers an opportunity to consider the accuracy of the content being consumed or shared and the repercussions of one’s actions on the broader community. Furthermore, implementing digital mindfulness can foster a healthier online environment. When users actively practice this mindfulness, they contribute to a culture of respect and consideration, reducing negativity and promoting constructive dialogue. This conscious engagement not only enhances personal interactions but also cultivates an overall sense of accountability within the digital space.

Ultimately, being digitally mindful aligns with the broader concept of self-awareness, allowing individuals to navigate the complexities of the online world with greater clarity. By embracing this practice, users can mitigate the risks associated with impulsive online behaviors, thereby enhancing their digital experiences and fostering a more constructive online community. In the digital era, where the rapid dissemination of information is commonplace, it becomes crucial to engage consciously. Before participating in online discussions or sharing content, individuals should consider three fundamental questions: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?

These inquiries are designed to foster intentional and thoughtful interactions, ultimately promoting a more constructive digital environment. Imagine a world where every piece of information you encounter is true, where you can trust every headline, every social media post, and every article you read. Unfortunately, this is not the reality we live in. In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, misinformation spreads like wildfire, and distinguishing fact from fiction has become more challenging than… Imagine a world where every piece of information you encounter is true, where you can trust every headline, every social media post, and every article you read. Unfortunately, this is not the reality we live in.

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, misinformation spreads like wildfire, and distinguishing fact from fiction has become more challenging than ever. This is where media and information literacy (MIL) comes in—a vital skill that equips individuals to critically evaluate information, make informed decisions, and thrive in a knowledge-driven society. In a world overflowing with information, being media and information literate is no longer optional; it is essential for survival and success. The most compelling reason for valuing media and information literacy is its ability to safeguard us against the dangers of misinformation. For instance, during the 2022 Philippine elections, fake news and misleading propaganda were widespread, influencing public opinions and undermining democracy. A media-literate individual would have recognized these manipulative tactics by evaluating the credibility of sources and understanding bias in reporting.

Similarly, MIL fosters responsible use of social media, a platform often abused for spreading falsehoods. Take, for example, the viral “fake donation drives” during natural disasters like Typhoon Yolanda. Fraudulent campaigns lured unsuspecting donors into supporting non-existent charities. A person equipped with media literacy skills can identify red flags, such as the absence of official affiliations or verifiable contact details, ensuring their contributions reach legitimate organizations. These examples show how MIL not only protects individuals but also promotes a healthier, more ethical digital environment. To sum up, media and information literacy is a powerful tool that empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of today’s digital age.

Think Before You Click Promoting Media Awareness And Kindness

People Also Search

© 2025 Prezi Inc. Terms & Privacy Policy © 2025

While This Connectivity Allows Youth To Learn, Express, And Connect

Held At FundLife’s Tacloban City Office, The Workshop Gathered 20

According To Kien, Who Studies Media And Its Impact, People

If They Resist You Regulating It, He Says That's Understandable