Social media surgery

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Social Media[1] Surgery is a community initiative that originated from the ideas of Pete Ashton and Nick Booth, with the first event taking place in Birmingham, England on October 15, 2008. This concept involves offering free advice and training to local community groups and individuals on how to leverage the power of social media and internet[3] technologies for their benefit. The initiative quickly gained international recognition, with spin-off surgeries appearing in Mosman, Australia and Africa. Over time, it has received several accolades, including the Prime Minister’s Big Society Award and the Adult Learners Week BBC Learning Through Technology[2] Award. Its popularity also led to the creation of similar surgeries across various communities and countries. Currently, the movement is looking forward to expanding further, with a growing number of volunteers and participants, and increasing its impact on communities worldwide.

Terms definitions
1. Social media ( Social Media ) Social media is a broad term encompassing a variety of digital tools and platforms that facilitate the sharing of information and the creation of virtual communities. Emerging from early systems like PLATO and ARPANET, it has evolved into modern platforms like Facebook and Twitter. These platforms offer unique features that differentiate them from traditional media, including the ability for users to generate content and engage in dialogic communication. They cater to over 100 million users globally and offer different forms of services, such as messaging apps and collaborative content creation platforms. The use of social media has far-reaching impacts on individuals, society, and businesses, influencing everything from marketing practices to political processes. However, it's also associated with ethical concerns, such as the spread of misinformation and potential addiction.
2. Technology ( Technology ) Technology, derived from the Greek words meaning craft and knowledge, is a broad term that refers to the tools, machines, and systems developed by humans to solve problems or fulfill objectives. Originating with primitive tools like stone axes and the discovery of fire, technology has evolved significantly throughout human history. It has been instrumental in different eras, from the invention of the wheel and advanced irrigation systems in ancient civilizations to the birth of universities and printing press during the medieval and Renaissance periods. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century marked a significant shift in mass production and innovation, giving rise to modern technologies like electricity, automobiles, and digital communication platforms. Today, technology is integral to various aspects of life and society, driving economic growth and societal change, while also raising concerns about security, privacy, and environmental impacts. The future of technology is expected to bring even more advancements, with the rise of artificial intelligence predicted to have significant implications for the job market.

A social media surgery is a gathering at which volunteer "surgeons" with expertise in using web tools, chiefly social media, offer free advice in using such tools, to representatives ("patients") of non-profit organisations, charities, community groups and activists, with "no boring speeches or jargon".

The idea was conceived by Pete Ashton, with Nick Booth of Podnosh Ltd, who ran the first such surgery in Birmingham, England, on 15 October 2008.

In July 2009, a spin-off surgery (dubbed the "Social media mob") started in Mosman, Australia, and in January 2010, the first spin-off surgery in Africa was held.

On 16 February 2012, it was announced that the Social Media Surgery movement had won "the Prime Minister’s Big Society Award".

Prime Minister David Cameron said:

This is an excellent initiative - such a simple idea and yet so effective. The popularity of these surgeries and the fact that they have inspired so many others across the country to follow in their footsteps, is testament to its brilliance.


Congratulations to Nick and all the volunteers who have shared their time and expertise to help so many local groups make the most of the internet to support their community. A great example of the Big Society in action.

The scheme also won the 2013 Adult Learners' Week "BBC Learning Through Technology Award".

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