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Agenda Setting Theory: How Media Shapes Public Focus 

Agenda Setting Theory: How Media Shapes Public Focus 

Communication theories help us understand how information is transmitted and how it influences individuals, groups, and society. These theories matter because they allow us to critically examine the media’s role in shaping our worldview. One such theory is the Agenda-Setting Theory, which explains how media influences not what people think, but what people think about. In other words, the media has the power to decide which issues are seen as important by the public.

Agenda-Setting Theory was first introduced by Maxwell McCombs and Donald Shaw in their 1972 study, “The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media”. This study focused on the 1968 U.S. presidential election and found that the issues emphasized in the media were the very issues that the public came to regard as most significant. The theory suggests that by giving more coverage to certain topics, the media can make those topics more noticeable, or salient, in the public’s mind.

The core concept of Agenda-Setting Theory is called salience transfer — the process through which the importance of issues in media coverage is transferred to the public agenda. Media outlets decide which stories to highlight, how often to cover them, and how much space or air time to give them. As a result, audiences tend to perceive those stories as more significant.

The theory operates on two levels:

  1. First-level agenda-setting: Focuses on the salience of issues, or which topics matter to the public.
  2. Second-level agenda-setting: Focuses on the salience of attributes, or how certain issues or candidates are framed — for example, what traits or characteristics the media emphasizes.

This theory rests on the assumption that media audiences often rely on media for information. The more the media covers an issue, the more important that issue appears to the public.

The Impact of This Theory

Agenda-setting doesn’t just affect how people talk about events; it has long-term impacts on:

  • Public Awareness: Making certain issues stand out from the rest.
  • Public Opinion: Influencing which topics people consider worth discussing and worrying about.
  • Policy and Political Action: Helping shape priorities for leaders and institutions.

In Indonesia, the extensive media focus on PPKM (Pemberlakuan Pembatasan Kegiatan Masyarakat), which is the policy that restricts community activities, and kept this measure at the top of the public agenda. The constant stream of information about case numbers, restrictions, and government policies made PPKM a priority in the public’s daily conversations and influenced behavior across the nation. Another example is the media coverage of climate change. The more media outlets report on rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and extreme weather events, the more these topics dominate public discussions and policy decisions, and the more the media puts a spotlight on them.

Agenda-Setting Theory highlights the powerful role media play in shaping public discourse. While it doesn’t target individual opinions, it sets the boundaries for what people discuss, worry about, and ultimately act upon. In a world full of information, understanding this theory is crucial for becoming more aware of how perceptions are formed and why certain topics dominate the conversation.

References

The Agenda-Setting Role of the News Media. (2019, march). ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332287520_The_Agenda-Setting_Role_of_the_News_Media

Agenda Setting Theory | Media’s Role in Shaping Public Opinion. (2023, April 8). Media Theory. Retrieved June 24, 2025, from https://mediatheory.net/agenda-setting-theory/

Maxwell E. McCombs, Donald L. Shaw. (n.d.). The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media. JSTOR, VoI.36(No.2), 176-187. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2747787?seq=7

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Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII: Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik?

Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik

Desain kemasan sebuah produk memiliki peran penting dalam sebuah produk. Penampakan visual memegang banyak peran mulai dari daya tarik, identitas merek, informasi produk, pengalaman pelanggan, hingga pengaruh Keputusan pembelian.

Tak hanya fokus pada kualitas produk, seorang pemilik usaha dituntut untuk adaptif dengan transformasi digital yang mengedepankan estetika visual. Menjawab persoalan tersebut dosen Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Ida Nuraini Dewi Kodrat Ningsih, S.I.Kom., M.A. melakukan pengabdian bertajuk “Pelatihan Design Packaging Sederhana”.

Bekerjasama dengan Dinas Komunikasi Informatika dan Persandian Kota Yogyakarta, pemberdayaan diberikan kepada Kelompok Informasi Masyarakat Yogyakarta (KIM YK) di Kelurahan Suryatmajan pada Kamis, 19 Juni 2025.

Sebanyak 40 masyarakat yang tergabung dalam KIM YK merupakan pelaku UMKM yang diharapkan akan

“Pemberdayaan atau pelatihan dalam konteks ini untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan, ekonomi, dan skill. Agar komunitas ini terutama melalui masyarakat, melalui komunitas-komunitas UMKM ini bisa berdiri, bisa mandiri bahkan bahkan bisa membuka lapangan kerja,” ujar Ida Nuraini Dewi Kodrat Ningsih, S.I.Kom., M.A.

Praktiknya, pemberdayaan ini dilakukan bersama mahasiswa International Program Communication (IPC) batch 2023. Puluhan mahasiswa terjun untuk belajar langsung bagaimana komunikasi pemberdayaan pada realita sosial.

Desain packaging sederhana dilakukan menggunakan alat seadanya, melalui smartphone yang dimiliki masyarakat aplikasi Canva dikenalkan. Workshop dimulai dengan pemahaman dasar terkait desain packaging, dilanjutkan dengan praktik membuat desain di Canva.

“Kelompok komunitas didampingi oleh mahasiswa-mahasiswa IPC 2023, walaupun konteksnya adalah mahasiswa dan internasional program tapi mereka harus tahu konteks lokal itu seperti apa, bahkan konteks memberdayakan masyarakat lokal dan turun langsung ke lapangan melihat bagaimana keadaan masyarakat,” tambahnya.

Sebelum workshop, hadir pula Ketua KIM Provinsi DIY Bapak Suripto. Beliau memberikan pengarahan hingga bagaimana awal mula perintisan KIM.

Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik

Mahasiswa IPC turut mendampingi workshop desain packaging

Berikut rencana pemberdayaan yang akan berlangsung tiga sesi:

Rangkaian Workshop Pemberdayaan

  1. Sesi Pertama (Sudah Berlangsung)
  • Tema: Workshop desain kemasan menggunakan Canva.
  • Materi:
    • Pentingnya desain kemasan untuk produk UMKM.
    • Praktik menggunakan Canva (versi gratis/berbayar affordable).
  • Tujuan: Memberikan solusi praktis dan ekonomis untuk meningkatkan daya saing produk.
  • Pendamping: Mahasiswa IPC (International Program Communication), UII – khususnya dari mata kuliah Empowerment Communication 2023.
  1. Sesi Kedua (Rencana Minggu Depan)
  • Tema: Workshop fotografi produk sederhana.
  • Teknologi: Menggunakan kamera smartphone (tidak mengandalkan alat canggih).
  • Tujuan: Meningkatkan kualitas visual produk UMKM.
  1. Sesi Ketiga (Rencana Berikutnya)
  • Tema: Workshop e-commerce (Shopee dan platform lain).
  • Tujuan: Mengajarkan pemasaran digital produk UMKM.
  • Pemateri: Praktisi entrepreneur pemilik toko e-commerce besar dari Malioboro.

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The Uses and Gratification Theory in Everyday Life

The Uses and Gratification Theory in Everyday Life

Communication theories help us understand how people interact through messages and media. They explain the reasons behind media use and its effects on audiences. One important theory in this field is the Uses and Gratifications Theory (U&G). This theory focuses on the idea that people are not just passive receivers of media but active users who choose media based on their needs.

The origins of U&G trace back to the 1940s, with early studies on radio listeners. However, it was further developed in the 1970s by Elihu Katz, Jay Blumler, and Michael Gurevitch. They aimed to understand why people use certain media instead of how media affects people. Later contributors like Herta Herzog and Wilbur Schramm added to the theory by studying media motivations and preferences in more detail.

How Does It Work? Understanding the Theory’s Framework

The core idea of U&G theory is that people use media to fulfill personal needs. These needs are diverse and vary from one individual to another. It also shows that people use media not just because it’s available, but because they expect it to give them something meaningful.

To understand how this theory works, it’s important to look at its five key assumptions:

  1. The audience is active :People are not passive receivers,and they choose media intentionally to meet specific goals.
  2. Media use is goal-directed : Viewers or users have reasons for selecting particular media content.
  3. Media competes with other sources of satisfaction :People can also meet their needs through friends, books, hobbies, not just media.
  4. Users understand and can explain their own media use :This means people are generally aware of what they want from media and why they use it.
  5. Cultural judgment is suspended : Instead of labeling media as “good” or “bad,” researchers focus on how individuals actually use and interpret it.

These assumptions shape the theory by emphasizing the audience’s role in the communication process. They highlight that media use is not accidental or random. Instead, people approach the media with a purpose, and this purpose is often shaped by their environment, mood, personality, and current situation. Alongside the assumptions, U&G outlines five categories of needs that explain why people use media:

  • Cognitive needs: the need to gain information and knowledge.
  • Affective needs: the need for emotional satisfaction or entertainment.
  • Personal integrative needs: the need to boost self-esteem and personal identity.
  • Social integrative needs: the desire to connect with others or be part of a group.
  • Tension-free needs: the need for escape and relaxation.

These needs influence media choice. For example, someone feeling lonely might scroll through Instagram (social integrative), while another stressed person might watch funny videos on YouTube to relax (tension-free).

Real-Life Examples

During the 2024 elections, many young people used TikTok not just for entertainment but to follow political updates. Some watched short videos to understand policies (cognitive needs), while others enjoyed humorous or emotional content related to politics (affective needs). Many users also posted their opinions to feel more confident and heard (personal integrative needs) and stayed connected through comments and trends (social integrative needs). For others, TikTok offered a fun escape from the stress of political debates (tension-free needs).

The Uses and Gratifications Theory is important because it shifts the focus from what media does to people to what people do with media. It reminds us that we actively participate in media use, driven by our personal needs and goals. This theory helps media creators and researchers better understand audiences and create content that meets real human desires.

References

Moses Sichach. (2023, November 17). Uses and Gratifications theory – Background, History and Limitations. SSRN, 1-11. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4729248

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Framing Theory: Shaping Perception Through Media

Framing Theory: Shaping Perception Through Media

In the vast world of communication studies, theories help us understand how messages are created, interpreted, and influence society. Communication theories explore the processes, tools, and impacts of information exchange across different platforms. One such influential theory is Framing Theory, which focuses on how media and communicators shape public perception by highlighting certain aspects of a message while ignoring others. Framing does not only tell audiences what to think about but also how it goes a step further to suggest how to think about it.

Gregory Bateson introduced the concept of framing in 1972, who defined psychological frames as the “spatial and temporal bounding of a set of interactive messages.” This concept was later expanded by scholars like Erving Goffman, whose work Frame Analysis (1974) became foundational in understanding how individuals use mental frameworks to interpret events. The theory shares roots with agenda-setting theory, which examines how media decides the importance of issues.

However, framing moves beyond agenda-setting by focusing on the essence and context of those issues. Robert Entman, a key figure in modern framing research, emphasized that framing involves selection and salience—choosing some aspects of reality and making them more noticeable in communication.

How Framing Theory Works

Framing theory suggests that the way information is presented—its “frame”—influences how people understand and react to it. These frames act as organizing principles or abstractions that structure meaning. Robert Entman, who is a leading scholar in framing theory, proposed that effective frames perform four core functions in communication. These functions help shape how audiences interpret and respond to messages. The four functions are:

  1. Define Problems: This involves identifying what a problem is and why it matters. For example, a news report may define climate change as a global emergency, framing it as an urgent issue requiring attention.
  2. Diagnose Causes: Once the problem is defined, the frame suggests who or what is responsible. In the case of climate change, the frame might point to industrial pollution, government inaction, or unsustainable consumption patterns.
  3. Make Moral Judgments: Frames often include evaluations of those involved. They may suggest that certain behaviors are unethical or unjust, such as blaming oil companies for prioritizing profit over the planet.
  4. Suggest Remedies (Treatment Recommendations): Finally, frames offer solutions or courses of action. These may include policy changes, public awareness campaigns, or technological innovations.

Also, according to Goffman, people rely on primary frameworks:

  • Natural frameworks interpret events as physical occurrences, independent of human influence
  • Social frameworks view events as the result of human actions and motivations.

Real-Life Examples of Framing

Real-Life Example: Framing in the Case of Palestine

The media often frames the situation in Palestine in different ways, which affects how people understand the conflict.

  1. Some news reports use the conflict frame, showing it as a fight between two equal sides, without explaining the power difference.
  2. Others use the responsibility frame, blaming only the Palestinian side while ignoring the role of occupation and blockade.
  3. The human-interest frame is used when stories show the suffering of Palestinian families, especially women and children, to create empathy.
  4. Some media apply the morality frame, questioning whether military actions against civilians are ethical.

These different frames can lead audiences to see Palestinians as either victims or aggressors, even when the facts are the same. This shows how framing can strongly shape public opinion.

Framing Theory is a powerful lens for understanding media influence. By not only selecting what to present but also how to present it, communicators shape audience perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. Recognizing the use of frames in everyday communication helps individuals become more critical consumers of media and more responsible communicators themselves. As the media continues to act as society’s gatekeeper, framing remains a vital tool for both analysis and awareness in the communication field.

Reference

Arowolo, S. O. (2017). UNDERSTANDING FRAMING THEORY. researchgate, 1-4.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Apakah Semua Umat Muslim Wajib Berkurban?

apakah semua umat muslim wajib berkurban meski sekali dalam seumur hidup?

Idul Adha menjadi momentum yang selalu ditunggu-tunggu oleh umat muslim di seluruh dunia. Di Indonesia sendiri Idul Adha diramaikan dengan berbagai kegiatan budaya seperti pawai obor, takbir keliling, hingga tradisi Grebeg Besar di Yogyakarta yang dilakukan setiap tahunnya.

Hari Raya Idul Adha 1446 H jatuh pada tanggal 6 Juni 2025 berlangsung meriah di Indonesia, namun esensi yang mendalam terkait spiritualitas dan pengorbanan yang dilakukan oleh Nabi Ibrahim AS dan putranya Nabi Ismail AS. Hingga akhirnya dimanifestasi menjadi ibadah, mulai dari salat Id, ibadah haji, hingga menyembelih hewan kurban.

Pertanyaan besarnya, apakah semua umat muslim wajib berkurban meski sekali dalam seumur hidup?

Menurut dosen Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Prof. Dr. Subhan Afifi, S.Sos., M.Si, berkurban hukumnya sunnah muakkadah atau sunnah yang sangat dianjurkan.

“Berkurban (Al-Udhhiyah) hukumnya sunnah muakkadah (sunah yang sangat dianjurkan). Jadi tidak wajib, tetapi sangat dianjurkan. Syarat berkurban adalah muslim, mampu (berkecukupan), sudah baligh (dewasa), dan berakal,” ujarnya.

Artinya, umat dianjurkan berkurban jika kondisi telah memenuhi syarat-syarat tersebut. jika sedang dalam kondisi keterbatasan ekonomi berkurban dapat ditunda hingga kondisi membaik.

Perintah untuk berkurban terdapat dalam Al-Qur’an:

فَصَلِّ لِرَبِّكَ وَانْحَرْ

“Dirikanlah shalat dan berqurbanlah (an nahr).” (QS. Al Kautsar: 2).

Di dalam sebuah hadits, riwayat dari Anas bin Malik radhiyallahu ‘anhu, juga dijelaskan:

ضَحَّى رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ بِكَبْشَيْنِ أَمْلَحَيْنِ أَقْرَنَيْنِ قَالَ وَرَأَيْتُهُ يَذْبَحُهُمَا بِيَدِهِ وَرَأَيْتُهُ وَاضِعًا قَدَمَهُ عَلَى صِفَاحِهِمَا قَالَ وَسَمَّى وَكَبَّرَ

“Rasulullah shallallaahu ’alaihi wa sallam berqurban dengan dua ekor kambing kibasy putih yang telah tumbuh tanduknya. Anas berkata : “Aku melihat beliau menyembelih dua ekor kambing tersebut dengan tangan beliau sendiri. Aku melihat beliau menginjak kakinya di pangkal leher kambing itu. Beliau membaca ‘bismillah’ dan bertakbir.” (HR. Bukhari no. 5558 dan Muslim no. 1966)

Kurban dilakukan untuk meraih takwa. Menyembelih kurban adalah ibadah yang agung, untuk mencari ridho Allah Ta’al semata. Qurban dinilai dari keikhlasan dan ketakwaan, bukan hanya daging atau darahnya. Allah Ta’ala berfirman:

لَنْ يَنَالَ اللَّهَ لُحُومُهَا وَلَا دِمَاؤُهَا وَلَكِنْ يَنَالُهُ التَّقْوَى مِنْكُمْ

“Daging-daging unta dan darahnya itu sekali-kali tidak dapat mencapai (keridhaan) Allah, tetapi ketakwaan dari kamulah yang dapat mencapainya.” (QS. Al Hajj: 37)

Kurban juga bentuk rasa syukur kepada Allah atas banyaknya nikmat yang telah Allah Ta’ala berikan kepada kita.

“Hendaknya bagi yang mampu, ibadah kurban dilaksanakan setiap tahun. Jadi ibadah qurban itu ibadah tahunan, bukan sekali seumur hidup,” tambah Prof. Subhan Afifi.

Siapa yang Berhak Menerima Daging Kurban?

Sebagian ulama kemudian menjelaskan bahwa daging sembelihan qurban dianjurkan sepertiganya dimakan oleh shohibul qurban; sepertiganya lagi dihadiahkan pada kerabat, tetangga, dan sahabat dekat; serta sepertiganya lagi disedekahkan kepada fakir miskin.

Hal ini seperti riwayat dari Abdullah bin ‘Abbas radhiyallahu ‘anhu, beliau berkata:

يأكل هو الثلث ويطعم من أراد الثلث ويتصدق على المساكين بالثلث

“(Daging kurban) dimakan sendiri 1/3, dihadiahkan 1/3, dan disedekahkan kepada orang miskin 1/3” (Disebutkan oleh Ibnu Qudamah dalam al-Mughni, 8/632).

Namun pembagian seperti itu tidak mutlak sifatnya. Jika lebih/ kurang dari sepertiga atau diserahkan pada sebagian orang tanpa lainnya (misalnya hanya diberikan pada orang miskin saja tanpa yang lainnya), maka itu juga tetap diperbolehkan.

Memberikan daging kurban untuk nonmuslim, juga diperbolehkan oleh para ulama sebagaimana difatwakan oleh Syaikh Abdul Aziz bin Baz, Syaikh Muhammad bin Shalih al-Utsaimin, dan al-Lajnah ad-Daimah lil Buhuts wal Ifta’. Berdasarkan keumuman ayat:

لَا يَنْهَاكُمُ اللَّهُ عَنِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يُقَاتِلُوكُمْ فِي الدِّينِ وَلَمْ يُخْرِجُوكُمْ مِنْ دِيَارِكُمْ أَنْ تَبَرُّوهُمْ وَتُقْسِطُوا إِلَيْهِمْ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ الْمُقْسِطِينَ

“Allah tidak melarang kamu untuk berbuat baik dan berlaku adil terhadap orang-orang yang tidak memerangimu karena agama dan tidak mengusir kamu dari negerimu. Sesungguhnya Allah menyukai orang-orang yang berlaku adil.” (QS. al-Mumtahanah: 8).

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The Influence of Cultural Background on Communication Styles: High and Low Context Cultures

The Influence of Cultural Background on Communication Styles: High and Low Context Cultures

Culture plays a vital role in shaping how people communicate. One of the most well-known frameworks for understanding cultural differences in communication is the concept of high-context and low-context communication, introduced by Edward T. Hall. In high-context cultures, much of the communication is implicit, relying on nonverbal cues and shared understanding. In contrast, low-context cultures value direct, clear, and explicit communication. Deeply rooted in cultural values and social norms, these differences can influence everyday interactions and impact intercultural communication, especially in global teams and diverse environments.

High-context cultures rely heavily on nonverbal signals, tone of voice, facial expressions, and shared experiences to convey meaning. Communication is often indirect, emphasizing harmony, relationships, and avoiding conflict. Countries like Japan, India, and Finland are often cited as high-context cultures. In these cultures, understanding a message requires reading between the lines and interpreting the broader context. On the other hand, low-context cultures such as the United States and Germany emphasize verbal clarity, directness, and efficiency. People in these cultures expect messages to be straightforward and self-contained, with little reliance on context or shared background.

Cultural Values and Their Influence

These communication styles are influenced by broader cultural values. High-context communication is often linked to collectivist cultures, where group harmony and social cohesion are prioritized. Individuals are expected to be sensitive to others’ feelings and to maintain social balance, which is why indirect communication is preferred. In contrast, low-context communication tends to be found in individualist cultures, where personal expression, autonomy, and efficiency are highly valued. As a result, communication becomes more task-oriented, and directness is seen as a sign of honesty and competence. These cultural dimensions affect not only how people speak but also how they interpret messages from others.

Implications for Intercultural Communication

Misunderstandings often occur when people from different communication cultures interact. For instance, a person from a low-context culture may find a high-context communicator vague or evasive, while the high-context individual may see the low-context style as blunt or insensitive. In international teams, such differences can lead to frustration or conflict if not properly managed. Developing intercultural competence—such as empathy, flexibility, and awareness of communication styles—can help reduce misunderstandings and foster better teamwork. Recognizing the difference between what is said and what is meant in different cultural contexts is crucial for building mutual respect and effective communication.

Cultural background has a profound influence on communication styles. High-context and low-context cultures represent two different approaches to sharing and interpreting messages, shaped by deeper cultural values such as collectivism and individualism. Understanding these differences is essential for successful intercultural communication. By being aware of how people from different cultures communicate, individuals can adapt their approach, reduce conflict, and create stronger relationships in diverse settings.

Reference

Levitt, S. R. (2022). Intercultural Competence in International Teamwork: Understanding High- and Low-context Communication Styles. COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA IN ASIA PACIFIC (CMAP), 1-13.

Shjio Nishimura, S. T. (2008). Communication Style and Cultural Features in High/Low Context Communication Cultures: A Case Study of Finland, Japan and India. researchgate, 1-15.

contributors, W. (2025, May 21). High-context cultures. Retrieved from Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-context_and_low-context_cultures

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

 

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Ask the Expert: Memilih Film yang Tepat Sesuai Usia Anak

Ask the Expert: Memilih Film yang Tepat Sesuai Usia Anak

Memilih film untuk anak wajib hukumnya untuk mempertimbangakan berbagai aspek. Cara mudahnya adalah dengan mamatuhi ketentuan usia yang tertera. Namun, tak sesederhana itu banyak hal mesti orang tua dan pendamping anak pahami.

Akhir-akhir ini sedang Virang film animasi karya anak bangsa, Jumbo kini telah ditonton lebih dari 9,8 juta kali. Nampaknya akan terus bertambah. Dalam artikel ini tidak akan mengkristisi cerita tentang apa di dalam film Jumbo sendiri, melainkan saling belajar soal literasi.

Jumbo menjadi primadona, di tengah kehausan tontonan edukatif film garapan Ryan Adriandy menjadi pelepas dahaga yang menyejukkan. Bahkan soundtracknya Selalu Ada di Nadi menjadi favorit anak-anak di sekolah.

Bersama-sama belajar literasi, apa sebaiknya yang harus dilakukan oleh orang tua, guru, pendamping, hingga pembuat film? Dalam artikel Ask the Expert edisi ketiga, dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Fatma Nurainai Zahra, S.Sos., M.A. yang mendalami kajian media menyampaikan beberapa hal yang penting dalam memilih tontonan untuk anak.

Memilih Tontonan (Film) untuk Anak

  1. Apa pentingnya belajar memilih tontonan yang baik untuk anak-anak?

Anak-anak meniru apapun di sekelilingnya, kita saja ketika melakukan sesuatu anak-anak langsung mengikuti. Jadi kalau mereka melihat film sebagai tontonan itu akan menjadi tuntunan bagi mereka. Sehingga kita sebagai orang di sekelilingnya, sebagai orang tua, guru, dan lainnya punya peran penting membersamai mereka dalam memilih mana tontonan yang bisa menjadi tuntunan untuk mereka.

  1. ⁠Apakah anak hanya penonton pasif, atau mereka bisa berpikir kritis juga?

Pada dasarnya memang anak cenderung lebih pasif karena mereka akan mengikuti tanpa kemudian mempunyai kesadaran akan hal yang dia ikuti itu baik atau tidak, sesuai dengan nilai-nilai atau tidak, belum memiliki nalar yang sempurna (kritis) sehingga pendampingan dari orang tua sangat penting untuk bisa menumbuhkan nalar itu. Misalnya menemani mereka, mengajak diskusi ketika mereka mengkonsumsi sebuah film sehingga mereka bisa belajar dan menikmati secara pasif apa yang meraka tonton.

  1. ⁠Apa yang harus jadi pertimbangan saat membuat film untuk anak?

Film bagi anak tidak hanya sebagai media hiburan saja, tapi lagi-lagi menjadi media pembelajaran. Bisa mengembangkan kreativitas anak-anak, media belajar literasi, pengembangan nalar kritis, mengembangkan berbagai kemampuan diri mereka maka itu tentu harus dieseuaikan dengan fase perkembangan dan pertumbuhan anak-anak. Film bisa mengandung beberapa hal seperti nilai-nilai edukasi, nilai-nilai kebudayaan yang sesuai dengan mereka. Sehingga film bisa membersamai mereka dalam memahami dunia di sekitarnya.

  1. Apakah tontonan bisa menjadi alat belajar komunikasi untuk anak?

Bisa banget, apalagi anak-anak cenderung membayangkan yang di sekitarnya, lebih imajinatif, lebih kreatif sehingga ketika menerima pesan-pesan dari film apalagi anak yang sudah bisa menerima alur cerita panjang empat tahun ke atas itu sudah bisa memahami alur cerita panjang, sehingga ketika disampaikan lewat film pesan-pesan dan nilai yang ada di film bisa ditangkap oleh anak. Tetapi harus ada catatan ada diskusi yang dilakukan oleh anak dan orang tua, sehingga kita bisa memastikan apa yang dipahami oleh anak, apa yang diterima oleh anak dari film yang dikonsumsi. Sehingga tercipta pembelajaran yang baik, pembelajaran yang menyenangkan karena menonton film adalah sebuah memori yang menyenangkan yang akan disimpan oleh anak.

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Staying Close from Afar: The Role of Social Media in Maintaining Long-Distance Relationships

Staying Close from Afar: The Role of Social Media in Maintaining Long-Distance Relationships

In today’s globalized world, it’s increasingly common for people to be separated by distance, whether for school, work, or other life changes. But while physical distance can be challenging, emotional closeness doesn’t have to fade. Thanks to social media, staying connected with friends, family, and loved ones has never been easier. These platforms allow us to maintain relationships, share everyday moments, and feel close to those far away.

  1. Everyday Connection Through Shared Moments

One of social media’s most powerful roles in long-distance relationships is offering a way to share daily life. A simple Instagram story, TikTok video, or WhatsApp update can say a lot about how someone is doing. It creates a sense of involvement, like you’re living alongside each other even if you’re in different countries or time zones. For example, a person might post about a morning coffee, and their friend from another continent replies with a voice note sharing a similar routine. These small exchanges might seem insignificant, but over time, they build a sense of togetherness. Platforms like Snapchat encourage real-time updates, which can make relationships feel current and real.

  1. Deepening Communication with Creative Interaction

Beyond basic chatting, social media allows for more interactive and creative ways to bond. Long-distance friends can watch a show together using apps like Locket or stream on Instagram Live. Sharing funny memes or meaningful posts through DMs is a way of saying, “This reminded me of you.” Even creating joint content—such as collaborative TikTok’s or shared playlists, makes people feel closer. These virtual activities create shared memories, even if you’re not in the same place. They turn communication from routine check-ins into something fun, engaging, and meaningful. It helps keep the energy of the relationship alive and often brings joy into both people’s days.

  1. Building Trust and Emotional Presence

Long-distance relationships, especially romantic or family ones, rely heavily on trust and consistent communication. Social media helps build that trust by offering visibility and transparency. Features like “last seen,” read receipts, or shared posts can offer reassurance, though they should be used respectfully. Video calls, voice notes, and messages help to fill emotional gaps. Even a simple emoji reaction or comment can show, “I’m here. I care.” This digital presence, often called “ambient awareness,” means you don’t have to talk 24/7 to feel close; you just know the other person is around. However, it’s important to set healthy boundaries. Social media should be a bridge, not a pressure. Over-relying on it or misreading online behaviour can create misunderstandings. Open conversations about communication styles help avoid unnecessary conflict.

Social media has transformed how we maintain long-distance relationships, turning what once felt impossible into something deeply possible—and even enjoyable. By sharing daily moments, engaging creatively, and building emotional presence, we can stay close to the people who matter, no matter how far they are. Distance doesn’t have to weaken bonds. With intention and care, social media can help love, friendship, and family thrive across continents.

References

Danielle Lippert, A. R. (2022). The Effects of Social Media on Long Distance Relationships. 15.

House, B. M. (n.d.). an you handle the distance? A look into social media and the effects on Long-Distance relationships. DigitalCommons@CSP, 25.

Kuske, M. R. (2020). Social Media Use in the Maintenance of Long-Distance Romantic. UWL Journal of Undergraduate Research XXIII, 14.

noel, D. S. (2024). The experiences of individuals in maintaining a long-distance relationship through social media. 8.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Three Habits That Boost Productivity During University Exams

Three Habits That Boost Productivity During University Exams

University life can be intense, especially during exam season when assignments, projects, and revisions gather at once. Good habits aren’t just helpful in these moments; they’re essential. Habits are powerful because they allow us to act without overthinking, saving time and mental energy. When developed intentionally, the right habits can help students stay organized, focused, and on track for academic success. Below are three of the most effective habits for staying productive during exams and managing a heavy workload (Carden, 2018).

  1. Plan Your Day Daily

Successful students don’t leave their days to chance. Building the habit of daily planning helps bring structure to chaos. Taking 10–15 minutes each morning or the night before to write down tasks, prioritize deadlines, and block time for studying makes a huge difference. A clear plan will help to reduce anxiety, improve time management, and make large projects feel more manageable. Whether you use a physical planner or a digital app, the key is consistency.

  1. Start the Day Early

Early mornings can be a secret weapon. Waking up early provides quiet, uninterrupted hours that are perfect for reviewing notes, reading, or completing assignments. Instead of rushing through the day or staying up too late, starting early promotes a calmer and more focused routine. It’s not about waking up at 5 a.m.—just an hour earlier than usual can make a big difference in how much you accomplish.

  1. Minimize Distractions

While goal setting is important, it’s even more powerful to create an environment that supports focus. One of the best productivity habits during exam season is minimizing distractions. This could mean studying in a quiet space, turning off phone notifications, or using tools like website blockers to stay on task. Even short periods of deep, undisturbed focus can lead to more efficient studying and better results.

Forming positive habits like daily planning, starting the day early, and minimizing distractions can significantly boost productivity during exams. These habits help students use their time wisely, reduce stress, and ultimately achieve better academic results. Start with one habit, stay consistent, and let the results speak for themselves.

References

Carden, L. (2018). Habit formation and change . researchgate, 20.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

Meigitaria Sanita
,

Why It’s Important to Gain Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Intelligence

“The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his own attitude by choosing his own thoughts,” said James Allen. This highlights the vital role of self-awareness in emotional intelligence. Mastering our emotions begins with recognizing and choosing how we respond to our surroundings and ourselves.

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions as well as those of others. It encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills (contributors, 2025). Developing EI is crucial for handling challenges, building relationships, and making thoughtful decisions. In this article, I will explore why gaining emotional intelligence is essential for personal and social success.

Emotional Intelligence and Social Success

Being emotionally aware and capable makes people effective in social interactions, relevant to friends, professionals, and family members. Listening to emotional concerns helps professionals manage friends and family, allowing them to resolve problems efficiently. With the considered caring soft skills of reading social cues, they can think of solutions instead of reacting in a stupor to unpredictable issues. As a result, not only are connections deepened, but also conflicts are more respectfully managed.

Using and understanding others’ emotions is valuable in professional circumstances related to teams and organizations. Group coordination is effective if there is open communication from all parties, provided that one party submits to dealing with conflict more calmly. When it comes to interpersonal connections as well as workplaces, emotionally intelligent people have a profound impact on communities. Through their empathy and respect, they foster a culture of inclusivity where people feel accepted. In this regard, emotional intelligence improves professional achievements but adds to a more balanced society. (Emotional intelligence in Leadership: Why it’s important, 2019)

The Personal Impact of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence significantly impacts individuals on a personal level, primarily through self-awareness and self-regulation. Self-awareness ability to recognize and understand one’s own emotions foundational to emotional intelligence. It allows individuals to identify their feelings accurately and understand how these emotions influence their thoughts and behaviors. This insight leads to better decision-making, improved relationships, and greater self-confidence, enabling people to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.

Building on self-awareness, self-regulation involves managing and controlling emotional responses, especially in stressful or challenging situations. Those with strong self-regulation can pause, reflect, and choose constructive reactions rather than impulsive or negative ones, which helps maintain emotional balance and resilience. This ability reduces emotional strain and fosters adaptability and positive interactions with others, contributing to overall well-being and happiness. Together, self-awareness and self-regulation empower individuals to understand their emotional triggers, manage their moods, and respond thoughtfully, enhancing personal growth and life satisfaction. (Antonopoulou, 2024)

How Emotional Intelligence Can Be Developed

Emotional Intelligence isn’t a fixed thing, and can be slowly developed by these three simple ways:

  1. Practice Self-Awareness

Set aside time every day to label and pay attention to your feelings. Keeping a journal or taking a moment to think about the reasons for such emotions.

  1. Practice Self-Regulation

During moments of heightened feelings, take a break and breathe. Deep breaths or counting to ten are effective methods to calm the mind, which ensures one can manage their responses in stressful situations.

  1. Improve Empathy

Learn how to take other people’s viewpoints seriously. To better understand individuals, listen to others, along with considering their feelings. It makes it easier to understand people, as one can create better interpersonal relationships.

Emotional intelligence is a valuable skill that enhances many areas of life. It goes beyond just personal feelings or social interactions, helps us handle everyday challenges, make better decisions, and build stronger relationships. So, taking the time and effort to learn and gain such a skill won’t be a waste of time.

References

Antonopoulou, H. (2024). The Value of Emotional Intelligence: Self-Awareness, Self-Regulation, Motivation, and Empathy as Key Components. 15.

contributors, W. (2025, may 1). Emotional intelligence. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emotional_intelligence

Emotional intelligence in Leadership: Why it’s important. (2019, April 3). Retrieved from https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/emotional-intelligence-in-leadership

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita