Social media does not rely on any particular medium; rather, it is a practice or set of practices for using media socially.

Letters to the editor. Radio call in shows. Fan newsletters. Zines. These media practices are not very different from contributing to an article on Wikipedia, sharing views on Huffington Post or blogging tips on childcare. It is not the medium that matters, but the use of it.

Ashlee Humphreys is a professor at the Medill School of Journalism, Media, and Integrated Marketing Communications, Northwestern University. Here you can find out more about her recent research, media coverage, and latest goings-on.