Checklist: Lesson 3 - Understanding Algorithms

Algorithm Basics

Identify algorithms operating in your daily digital life

Understand the difference between explicit and implicit data collection

Recognize how your data is used to personalize experiences

Identify the business objectives behind different algorithmic systems

Distinguish between different types of recommendation systems

Document what appears in your feeds or recommendations

Categorize content by topic, tone, and perspective

Identify patterns in what algorithms show you

Notice what types of content seem to be prioritized

Observe what perspectives might be missing

Be intentional about engagement (likes, comments, shares)

Use “not interested” options to reject unwanted content

Pause viewing history when appropriate

Periodically clear history to reset algorithms

Consider using separate accounts for different activities

Use chronological feeds when available

Subscribe directly to sources via newsletters or RSS

Try third-party tools that offer different sorting options

Search for specific content rather than browsing algorithmic feeds

Follow sources directly rather than relying on algorithmic discovery

Review privacy settings to limit data collection

Adjust ad preferences to influence what advertising you see

Manage notification settings to reduce algorithmic prompts

Explore “well-being” features offered by platforms

Regularly audit and update your algorithmic preferences

Consider transparency issues in algorithmic systems

Think about how much control users should have

Reflect on who is responsible when algorithms cause harm

Consider how algorithms might affect different groups differently

Evaluate how your attention is being monetized