Navigating the Digital Debate: MSU Students Speak on AI and Social Media
DeAngleo Bennett, an information science junior at Michigan State University (MSU), voices a sentiment shared by many students: “AI doesn’t seem real—it doesn’t come off humane,” he muses. As technology integrates into daily life, students find themselves evaluating its role and impact.
The Social Media Paradox
Social media has become a cornerstone of communication, especially for students like anthropology freshman Alexis Bell. Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok dominate her interactions. According to Gwendolyn Seidman, an MSU psychology professor, social media creates a “social dilemma,” with pressure to stay engaged—often reluctantly.
For many, like Nevaeh Greenleaf, this engagement is passive, consisting mostly of observing rather than participating. Seidman identifies two forms of social media use: active, which involves engagement and interaction, and passive, primarily scrolling and consuming content. Passive usage can negatively impact well-being, while active usage varies in its effects.
The Reality Behind the Filters
Despite the knowledge that others’ social media personas are curated, the impact remains profound. “Most people filter what they post,” Seidman notes, acknowledging how this can lead to unhealthy comparisons. Bell and Greenleaf agree, noting the contrast between online personas and real-life authenticity.
AI as a Double-Edged Sword
AI garners mixed reactions among students. While some, like Bell, perceive it as enabling laziness, others, including Assistant Professor Mohammad Ghassemi, see potential in using AI for learning: “Think of it as a tutor in your pocket.”
Ghassemi emphasizes AI as a tool to enhance understanding rather than a path to easy answers. “Dialogue and real conversation are invaluable,” he advocates, suggesting that discussions can enhance learning beyond what AI alone offers.
The Way Forward: Balancing Tech and Reality
MSU students and faculty wrestle with the dual nature of AI and social media—their conveniences and challenges. As they navigate these digital waters, the conversations continue, reflecting a community seeking balance in an increasingly interconnected world.
According to The State News, the debate over AI and social media remains a significant topic for students navigating modern academia.
