Week Two Discussion Revision

YouTube, until recently I used this app almost every day since I was 12. Only recently have I started using TikTok more but that neither here nor there. I have learned more on these two apps than I have on any other app, news channels and (depending on the topic) have learned more on these two apps than was ever taught to me in school. I will just be focusing on YouTube for now.

YouTube, a giant in the realm of online video-sharing platforms, has reshaped the way we consume and share content since its creation in 2005. Today, it stands to show the power of user-generated content, offering a vast and continually evolving library that caters to a broad spectrum of interests.

YouTube’s greatest strength lies in its diversity. From educational content and how-to tutorials to music videos and vlogs, from film trailers to cooking shows. This democratization of content creation has allowed millions of voices to be heard, fostering a global community that transcends international boundaries. The interface is user-friendly, with intuitive features that make it easy to discover, watch, and share videos. YouTube’s algorithm continually learns from user behavior, providing personalized suggestions that often lead to discovering new content creators or topics. The ability to create playlists and subscribe to channels allows for a curated, personalized experience.

YouTube has also facilitated a revolution in education. The platform is filled with tutorials and lectures on virtually every topic, democratizing access to knowledge. Khan Academy, TED Talks, and Crash Course are only a few examples. I know previous courses I have taken with UAGC have utilized YouTube to post lectures, course material, and used multiple videos as a point of reference for course work.


However, the platform is not without its shortcomings. The recommendation algorithm, while generally effective, can sometimes lead users down unanticipated and unwanted rabbit holes. The platform has also faced criticism for not doing enough to moderate harmful or misleading content, and issues of copyright infringement.

Another area of concern is the often intrusive and excessive advertisements. While ad revenue is fundamental to allowing creators to produce content, the frequency of ads, especially unskippable ones, can significantly hinder the viewing experience. If you are like me and can't stand to watch ads there's always YouTube Premium, a subscription service that removes ads and offers additional features, addresses this issue but comes at a financial cost. The platform's focus on viewer engagement metrics can encourage sensationalism over substance, leading creators to prioritize virality over quality. This algorithmic bias can also make it challenging for new creators to gain visibility in an increasingly crowded space.

YouTube has transformed the digital landscape, providing a platform for creativity, learning, and entertainment. Despite its flaws, its impact on society and culture is incredible. It's a testament to the power of the internet to democratize content creation and consumption, giving everyone a voice and a chance to learn, and connect with others around the world.


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