[Peter_Spaeth]

From "generative AI."

While both involve online interactions, "social media" refers to a broader range of platforms where users share content, connect with others based on personal relationships, and often have a wider range of features like posting updates, photos, and videos, whereas an "online forum" is a dedicated space for focused discussions on specific topics, usually with a thread-based structure where users post messages to engage in deeper conversations around a particular subject matter; essentially, social media is about connecting with people, while forums are about discussing ideas in depth within a niche area.
Key Differences:
Focus:
Social media prioritizes personal connections and sharing updates across a network, while online forums prioritize in-depth discussions around a specific topic or interest area.
Content Type:
Social media often features a mix of short text updates, images, videos, and links, while forums primarily consist of text-based posts within threads focused on a specific topic.
Community Structure:
Social media platforms often have a "follower" system where users see content from people they follow, while forums typically have a more open discussion where anyone can participate on a given topic.
Examples:
Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok
Online Forums: Reddit (for specific subreddits), specialized forums for tech communities, gaming forums