Social media channels are designed to be
engaging; however, these media are often used by public health organizations
and practitioners as a means to disseminate mass information, rather than to
engage audiences in meaningful interaction. Harnessing social media to best
achieve public health outcomes is a topic of much discussion and study in the
public health community.
For this assignment, you will analyze public
health communication via social media in your community. Follow a public health
organization, local or national, on a social media channel (e.g., Twitter, Facebook,
LinkedIn) for at least 3 weeks. In a paper of 1,000-1,250 words, address the
following:
- Describe
the benefits/advantages and challenges/risks of using social media for
public health communication. - Describe
the organization you followed and the social media channel you selected.
What kind of information is shared on social media by the organization? - To
what degree does the organization engage with users/followers (e.g.,
responding to questions, engaging in conversation, hosting
“chats” with experts, soliciting information)? - What
improvements or suggestions would you make to this organization regarding
its social media engagement? Why?
Use at least three scholarly sources to
support your paper.
Prepare this assignment according to the
guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
An abstract is not required.
