Election 2010

This year before the election has taken place, social media has been able to give a first glimpse into how the country is intending to vote.

Facebook users took part in a huge "mock poll", in which Nick Clegg and the Liberal Democrats came top.

"Democracy UK on Facebook has posted a constant stream of serious and light-hearted news and discussion, including question-and-answer sessions with notable journalists providing a range of opinions."

"Facebook also partnered with YouTube during the election campaign to source questions for the three leaders to answer. Allan claimed that this had also proved popular, and that 180,000 votes were made and over 5,300 questions submitted."

http://www.v3.co.uk/v3/news/2262503/facebook-touts-success-online

http://www.metro.co.uk/news/824928-general-election-2010-facebook-abuzz-with-650-000-ive-voted-users

The Xbox Live community has also allowed users to take part in a similar mock election.

"Being a young, socially and technology aware group who certainly have their fingers on the pulse 24/7, Xbox 360 LIVE members are a vitally important demographic for UK parties."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/gamesblog/2010/may/05/xbox-live-lib-dems

I think bringing the election and politics to these formats has helped a great deal to attract the interest of many young people across the country, which is a great thing. The 'Democracy UK on Facebook' page has also helped people to keep updated and understand the election this year. For example, I was unclear on what a 'hung parliament' meant until I watched one of the videos Facebook had made in collaberation with YouTube.