Social media

USC uses social media to provide information and encourage social interaction. Use this page to find USC on different social media platforms. Rest assured, if you choose not to engage in social media or social networking, you will not be disadvantaged in any way.

Find USC on social media / social networks

USC on Facebook

www.facebook.com/unisunshinecoast

Current students can keep updated with USC-related news, events and academic calendar reminders. If you're thinking about studying at USC you'll get an insight into what's happening on campus.

To find a wide variety of USC-related Facebook pages, visit the main USC page and go to the 'likes' section. 

USC on Twitter

@usceduau

USC on YouTube

www.youtube.com/unisunshinecoast

USC on Flickr

www.flickr.com/unisunshinecoast

USC on Pinterest

www.pinterest.com/usceduau

USC on Instagram

www.instagram.com/unisunshinecoast

USC on Tumblr

www.unisunshinecoast.tumblr.com 

USC on LinkedIn

www.linkedin.com

What is social media?

Social media is media that allows social interaction. By using social media websites, users can go beyond simply reading and viewing information in a controlled way, to actually participating.

Users can comment on, share and generate content. Websites such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, blogs and Flickr are examples of social media.

Web 2.0 is a term that is used to describe web applications that enable this social media dialogue. Web 2.0 gives users the ability to collaborate and interact with each other.

It is this interactivity that distinguishes web 2.0 from traditional web applications and web sites.

What if I choose not to participate in social media?

USC is committed to providing equity of access to information for all people. Social media is just one way that USC provides support and information.

Should you choose not to participate in social media, you will not miss out on any important information or be disadvantaged in any way.

You find content and support available across many types of media and contact points. These include the USC website, print publications, advertising (including television and radio), email, social media and electronic applications. Personal support and contact is also readily available to you.

The University is widely recognised for its dedication to personal attention and one-on-one support.

Tips for using social media

There is much debate about social media and its associated benefits and risks. The decision to engage in this way, or allow your family to, is very much a personal choice.

Below are some tips and points to consider as you navigate this media space.

Sifting information and opinion

Using social media you can interact with people, organisations and information sources and find information and content in a timely and convenient way.

Third-party feedback can provide a unique perspective and can add a valuable perspective as you make decisions. When evaluating information, it is wise to consider the source and check the accuracy and currency of information before relying on it.

This is especially important when information you are referring on is based on the opinion of another. 

Engaging in a public space

Social media opens up access to a whole world of new (and old) friends, professional networks and information sources.

You can access a lot of information and connect with a lot of people quickly. The personal nature of the medium can make it easy to forget that you are engaging in a public space. 

Always consider your safety when broadcasting details of what you are doing and your location. Remember, it may not be just your close friends listening. 

Choose the information you give out and the way you represent yourself carefully.

It doesn’t hurt to think about the possible impact on a future employer or your grandmother before you hit the post button. Content published on the internet can stay around for a long time.

Protecting your privacy

Privacy settings are there to protect you and the level of information you disclose, is often entirely within your control. 

It is important to keep informed about privacy options and tools and the terms and conditions on the sites you use.

Make sure that you are comfortable with the level of detail you are revealing to the world. Think about protecting the privacy of your friends as you share information that may impact them as well.

The Australian Government's Office of the Australian Information Commissioner has resources to help you protect your privacy while using social media and guidance on action to take should you have a concern in the Your Privacy Rights FAQ’s (Social Networking).

More information

Back to top