Blog

Rohan Kalahasty, 18, and Sai Mattapalli, 17, spent their summer laying the foundation for a groundbreaking startup, Vytal, that has the potential to revolutionize how we detect cognitive decline in older adults using artificial intelligence (AI). Their efforts highlight the power of using technology for good, and that students are never too young to make a difference. Kalahasty and Mattapalli’s technological breakthrough reveals the importance of equipping students with the skills to use tech positively so that they can follow in Kalahasty and Mattapalli’s footsteps. 

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At The Social Institute, we recognize the importance of bringing students into the conversation when empowering them to navigate social media and tech in positive ways. To shine a light on the students’ online experiences the New York Times turned to the voices of teenage girls who participated in programs by Girls Leadership. These students gave great tips for students and adults alike on what they should know about social media use. From ways to manage your screen time to playing to your core online, these teens have the inside scoop on all things social media. Here is what you need to know: 

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 While the temptation to restrict social media exists, a new book by Dr. Devorah Heitner reveals that teaching online safety to students is much more effective than restricting it altogether. Amid calls for restrictions and bans, Dr. Heitner’s latest book, “Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World,” highlights the need for educators to empower students with the skills to navigate social media responsibly. We’re exploring key insights from Heitner’s new book, and how educators play a vital role in fostering responsible online behavior. Let’s dive in! 

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Students are turning to TikTok as their main search engine. And now, TikTok is quietly integrating Wikipedia snippets into its search results, offering users direct in-app access to even more information. Whether students are searching for the latest trending news, learning new terminology, or diving deeper into facts they’re seeing online, Wikipedia snippets act as a bridge between entertaining video content and information. But, with 20% of search results on TikTok containing false or misleading information, how can we find the right balance between misinformation and entertainment? Dive in and find out how educators can support students in this new era of information gathering. 

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Did you know that 40% of teenagers report that social media causes them to worry about body image? In an age where social media platforms often perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards, Pinterest is stepping up to challenge this status quo. The company is harnessing the power of AI and machine learning to celebrate diversity in body types, aiming to make every user feel seen and included. This groundbreaking move is not only reshaping the way we perceive beauty but also highlighting the significance of representation and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in online spaces.

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