Lesson
Communication Technology and the Presidency
Guiding question
How have advancements in communication technology changed how the president communicates with the people?
How have presidents used communication technologies, such as social media, to shape public views about policy goals?
Objective
- Students will be able to explain how the presidential use of changing communication technologies has changed the president’s relationship with the people.
Materials
Resources
Student Resources:
- Internet-enabled device with access to President Obama’s YouTube and President Trump’s Twitter accounts (or printed off/screenshots from Teacher Resources)
- President and Communication Technology Graphic Organizer
Teacher Resources:
Lesson Components
ActivityPresident and Communication Technology Handout
How have advancements in communication technology changed how the president communicates with the people?
ActivityTechnology and the President Interactive Timeline
An interactive that highlights how technology has increased the reach and influence of the executive branch.
EssayCandidate-Focused Campaigns & Media Case Study
Examine how candidates have used media and technology to shape their campaigns and connect with voters throughout history.
Lesson plan
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More Information
Facilitation Notes
- The focus of this lesson is President Obama’s and Trump’s official social media accounts, which have been preserved by the National Archives and Records Administration. Teachers may choose to curate a set of screenshots and video selections for students to use instead of real-time social media use in the classroom.