Center for Media Engagement - The University of Texas at Austin

By embracing different perspectives, social media can be a bridge—not a battlefield. Our study, Bridging Divides on Social Media, explores how connective language fosters understanding online. Read more in this blog featured by International News Media Association (INMA): https://lnkd.in/eRJySQXp

What if social media prioritized community over clicks? In Le Monde, Dr. Talia Stroud discusses how Vermont’s Front Porch Forum fosters respectful online interactions, reinforcing real-world connections. Unlike traditional social networks, this hyperlocal platform curates content without algorithms, likes, or infinite scrolling—keeping discussions civil and community-focused. ?? Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/eMSkaKiC #CommunityEngagement #FrontPorchForum

Your Monday morning read to kickstart the week: Our researchers dive into how AI's rapid rise is deepening social inequalities and challenging digital citizenship. Explore why new practices are urgently needed to protect democracy in this shifting landscape.?? #DigitalCitizenship #AI https://lnkd.in/erQ__UHt

Those numbers say a lot. Are you feeling optimistic or concerned about AI’s role in your career?

The thought on the minds of many nonprofit leaders these days is: what if we get sued? INN's Chief Operating Officer Soraya Membreno shared five steps she's taking to help prepare for that "worst-case scenario": https://lnkd.in/es6nu5dF

With debates on the Russia-Ukraine war heating up, how is media shaping the conversation???? From viral headlines to political commentary, the war raises tough questions about objectivity vs. bias in journalism. Are we seeing full, accurate reporting—or just narratives designed to provoke? Our case study examines how coverage, from Tucker Carlson’s critiques to NBC’s framing of Ukrainian fighters, influences public perception in times of conflict. ?? Read more: https://lnkd.in/eUMUZsVR #MediaEthics #RussiaUkraineWar #JournalismMatters

How do people really feel about content moderation??? A study coauthored by Dr. Gina M. Masullo from CME dives into how factors like gender, perceived similarity, and freedom of speech arguments shape views on moderation fairness. From the U.S. to Portugal, the findings show that calls for "free speech" often challenge moderation decisions, but reactions differ based on who raises the complaint. Explore how these insights could reshape social media practices: https://lnkd.in/evx7Zyin #ContentModeration #SocialMediaResearch

Ever said, “I see your point” in a debate??? That’s #ConnectiveLanguage, and it can make online conversations more productive. A new study shows how AI helps detect and promote it. https://lnkd.in/eBq_GWrW

Can social media bring people together instead of driving them apart??? A new study explores #ConnectiveLanguage—phrases that foster understanding and real discussion. See how AI is helping identify them. https://lnkd.in/eBq_GWrW

??? Bridging Divides on Social Media Not all online conversations fuel division—some build connection. A new study identifies connective language: phrases like “I see your point” or “That’s an interesting perspective” that foster understanding. ?? More than politeness, it invites real discussion. ?? AI models like BERT help detect it, paving the way for better online discourse. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eBq_GWrW #ConnectiveLanguage #SocialMedia