What Your Feed Doesn’t Show You: Understanding Social Media Algorithms
About Course
This classroom resource helps students understand how social media algorithms shape the content they see and influence their opinions, behaviour and digital experiences. Through reflection, feed analysis and collaborative media production, learners explore recommendation algorithms, influencer marketing, screen time, confirmation bias, rage bait and responsible participation in digital environments.
LINK TO THE RESOURCE: https://bitte-was.de/fileadmin/Redaktion/downloads/SocialMediaundDemokratie/BW_SocialMedia_Kurzvideos_Konzept.pdf
- Title of the resource: What Your Feed Doesn’t Show You: Understanding Social Media Algorithms
- Author: Landesmedienzentrum Baden-Württemberg, Germany
- Language: German
- Year of publication: 2025
- Keywords: Algorithms, Social media, Influencers, Screen time, Confirmation bias, Rage bait, Media literacy, Critical thinking
Learning outcome 1: Algorithms, AI & Deepfakes
-
- explain how algorithms influence the content they see online
- recognise how recommendation systems shape their social media feeds
- understand how online platforms personalise digital experiences
Learning outcome 2: Critical Thinking & Media Literacy
-
- identify manipulative online practices such as confirmation bias and rage bait
- critically evaluate the credibility and purpose of online content
- recognise how algorithms can contribute to filter bubbles and polarisation
Learning outcome 3: Online Behaviour & Digital Wellbeing
-
- reflect on their own social media use and screen time
- identify strategies for responsible and balanced social media use
- create digital content that promotes informed, respectful and responsible online behaviour
