Mapping Complex Terrains: Bridging Social Media and Community Literacies

While social media is a pervasive form of digital cultural interaction, it remains a relatively new area of study for literacy scholars. Scholars have expanded the scope of social media research beyond traditional academic communities; however, much research still focuses narrowly on youth. This essay begins by tracing how digital communities have developed and argues that online spaces constitute legitimate sites where meaningful community literacies develop. We then highlight how social media is evolving as a new mode of community and civic engagement. Finally, we identify areas for more research at the intersections of social media and community literacy.