In recent years, ever-changing technology and social media growth have affected the social dynamic among university students, and unfortunately some of these changes have been negative because of hateful messages on apps such as Yik Yak.
Bobby Woodard, vice president for the Division of Student Affairs and associate provost, said students must know their comments are never truly anonymous when they are linked back to their mobile devices.
“There are several apps across campuses now that appear to allow users to post anonymous comments, but in fact, they are not anonymous because the apps are tied to the mobile device they are using,” Woodard said.
It’s challenging to eliminate these negative comments on applications because of the limitations it could put on freedom of speech, according to Woodard.
“While some universities are exploring options to put geofences on their campuses to block the apps, there is a concern that this would limit the right to free speech on campus,” Woodard said. “There are several pending legal actions about whether institutions are violating free speech by limiting apps on their campuses.”
Woodard said he is making an effort to educate students on the effects of being participants on apps such as Yik Yak.
“One of the best ways to conquer bad speech is with more speech that is positive in nature,” Woodard said. “We are making an effort to educate people on the effect that their participation in apps such as Yik Yak can have, not to eliminate the app, just education on how actions on these apps can affect others.”
Woodard said it can be difficult to keep up with all of the social media changes constantly occurring.
“A challenge in social media in general is that it’s forever changing, especially with new apps that allow so-called anonymous comments and posts,” Woodard said. “We are working to understand those platforms and try to educate others on how to use them in an inclusive way.”
Woodard said he hopes members of the Auburn Family would take a stand if they saw something inappropriate online.
“Many of our Auburn Family live by the Auburn Creed, and they refrain from posting comments online that are hurtful or destructive,” Woodard said. “When our students see or hear inappropriate comments online, I hope they will respond.”
Woodard said taking this stand would be abiding by the Auburn Creed to be helpful to each other.
“At Auburn, we believe in the human touch, which cultivates sympathy with my fellow men and mutual helpfulness and brings happiness for all,” Woodard said. “Even online, we can stand up for each other and speak out against hurtful speech.”
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