Media Algorithm Explained
12/18/2024 | 1m 30sVideo has Closed Captions
Discover how algorithms influence what kids watch and why it’s important to stay aware.
Children wonder how their favorite videos are always next in line. Enter an adult who explains algorithms — computer programs designed to keep users engaged by analyzing interactions. This playful video highlights the importance of understanding how algorithms shape online experiences and encourages critical thinking about screen time.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
Learning to Read is a local public television program presented by WNPT
Funding for LEARNING TO READ is provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation and the Hays Foundation.
Media Algorithm Explained
12/18/2024 | 1m 30sVideo has Closed Captions
Children wonder how their favorite videos are always next in line. Enter an adult who explains algorithms — computer programs designed to keep users engaged by analyzing interactions. This playful video highlights the importance of understanding how algorithms shape online experiences and encourages critical thinking about screen time.
Problems playing video? | Closed Captioning Feedback
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Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship- He's fast, but not as fast as me!
I'm gonna pretend to be scared.
I won't really be scared, but I'm gonna pretend.
- Have you ever wondered how it always knows what to play next?
- Yeah, it's like it knows exactly what we like.
I wonder how?
- Go, (screams) (static buzzing) - What?
- What the?
- Hey, kid!
I know what you're thinking.
How could I know what you wanna watch and show it to you?
Well, it's because of algorithms.
Algorithms are special programs that decide what you see based on how you interact with them.
- Wow.
What just happened?
- Wait, is this an ad?
- Don't skip!
Let me explain.
The more you like, share, comment, and watch a video, the more similar content you'll see.
It's not magic, it's just computer programming designed to keep you hooked.
You'll spend too much time watching and only get to see things from one perspective.
- Listen, we're starting a band.
- That was weird.
- Yeah.
Let's watch something else.
- Do you know how to play?
- Hey, who pressed that?
(children screaming) - [Narrator] Made possible by the generous support of the Marlene and Spencer Hays Foundation.
Support for PBS provided by:
Learning to Read is a local public television program presented by WNPT
Funding for LEARNING TO READ is provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation and the Hays Foundation.