In this conversation, Dr. Angela and Rev. Dr. Kyle Oliver discuss the impact of new media and social media on our lives, particularly in the context of ministry and religious practices. They reflect on their own experiences and research in the field, exploring how our relationship with technology has evolved over the years. They emphasize the importance of understanding social media as a set of practices rather than just devices or platforms. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by young people in navigating the new media landscape and the potential impact on their happiness and well-being. It discusses the need for parents to have a deep understanding of the practices and habits that can protect their children. They also suggest creating a rule of life or playbook for navigating the digital media landscape, focusing on practices that give life and avoiding those that drain us. TakeawaysUnderstanding social media as a set of practices rather than just devices or platforms is crucial in exploring its impact on our lives.The addictive nature of social media and the need for boundaries and intentionality in our usage should be acknowledged and addressed.Young people face unique challenges in navigating the new media landscape, and their happiness and well-being may be affected.Reflecting on our own habits and practices with social media can help us cultivate a more life-giving and intentional relationship with technology. Parents need to have a deep understanding of the practices and habits that can protect their children in the digital age.Co-watching and engaging with children while they consume media can enhance their cognitive and relational development.Social media has shifted from everyday user-generated content to media with a comment section, leading to a professionalization of content creation.The Christian Formation Playbook focuses on the intersection of learning, faith, and media.To have a more meaningful experience in social media spaces, individuals can focus on engaging in conversations about topics they are passionate about. Focus on your website and email newsletter for effective church communications, as Facebook may not have your best interests in mind.Be intentional in your use of social media, paying attention to what gives you life and what drains you.Set boundaries and create a rule of life or playbook for navigating the digital media landscape.Support mainstream media organizations to ensure the existence of quality content.

GUEST BIO:

Rev. Dr. Kyle Oliver is an Episcopal priest and an educational media producer and researcher. He serves as director of communications and adjunct instructor at Church Divinity School of the Pacific and a visiting scholar in the Digital Futures Institute at Teachers College, Columbia University.

GUEST NOTES

Kyle Oliver's website: ⁠https://kyleoliver.net⁠

Find Kyle and his reflections on new media on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/kylematthewoliver

Find Kyle and his reflections on new media on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kmoliver5

⁠Kyle's current project is A Christian Formation Playbook, currently a website/newsletter thing (like Substack but different platform) in preparation for a podcast and a book: formationplaybook.com