Social media can be considered a type of model, specifically a social model. This is because social media platforms:

• Represent social interactions and relationships.
• Simulate aspects of real-world communication and community.
• Influence behaviors and perceptions through the spread of information and trends.

However, it's important to note that "model" can have different meanings in different contexts. In the context of computer science or statistics, a model is a simplified representation of a system or process. Social media platforms use complex algorithms and data structures, but at their core, they model how people connect and share information.

Here are some sources that may be helpful:

• Wikipedia: Social Media
• TechTarget: Social Model