Introduction
Hey! I’m Ava Miskic, I’m 19 years old from Calgary, Alberta. I’m currently in my second year of the Bachelor of Commerce program at the University of Victoria, spending the school year in Victoria and summers back in Calgary. One experience that significantly shaped my educational journey was starting a scrunchie business in junior high. My Grandma taught me how to sew, and I spent hours creating and selling scrunchies. This hands-on experience sparked my passion for business, shifting my initial plan for post secondary to commerce, and I’m so thankful it did!
Social Media and Its Role in Education
Social media has transformed the way I connect with others and learn. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok keep me close to long-distance friends and family, letting me peek into their lives no matter where they are. LinkedIn, on the other hand, helps me network with classmates, professors, and even potential employers, opening doors for both educational and career opportunities.
In education, social media makes learning more engaging by offering access to diverse resources and interactive tools. YouTube and TikTok break down complex topics with fun, creative tutorials, whereas live polls and sessions can provide in the moment communication with peers and teachers. It also encourages creativity, letting learners create and share their own educational content.
That said, social media comes with its challenges. Distractions, privacy concerns, misinformation, and shallow content can all limit its effectiveness. By balancing these ups and downs, social media can become a powerful tool for learning.
Article on Benefits of Social Media for Educational Purposes
Article on Advantages and Disadvantages of Social Media in Education
Personalized Learning and Digital Literacies
Personalized learning keeps me motivated by allowing me to customize my study habits to fit my strengths and preferences. I’m most productive when I have control over when and how I learn, especially during my peak focus times in the morning. This flexibility not only helps me stay engaged but also increases my sense of commitment to my development. Through personalized learning, I’ve discovered that quiet spaces in the mornings are the best environments for me to work and be the most productive.
In today’s fast-paced world, digital literacy is essential. As technology is constantly advancing, most jobs now demand some level of tech knowledge. Being digitally literate opens up opportunities for both personal and professional growth, helping us stay competitive and adapt to new tools and platforms.
Digital Identity and Online Presence
Managing my digital identity is something I take seriously as I am very aware that it impacts both my personal and professional life. I like to share glimpses of my hobbies, outdoor adventures, and moments with friends, but when it comes to platforms like LinkedIn, I keep everything strictly professional. I always think about how potential employers might one day look at my posts, and I always ensure to ask myself, “Would I be comfortable with them seeing this?”
I avoid controversial topics, like politics, and focus on building a positive online presence. This matters because the internet has a long memory, and once something is online, it’s hard to truly erase. I’ve always known that what I post can have lasting effects, so I think twice before sharing anything to make sure my digital identity reflects the image I want to project.
Article on The Importance of Digital Identity
Navigating and Using Online Platforms Ethically
Having grown up with social media and online tools, I’ve become accustomed to learning the ins and outs of new digital platforms relatively quickly. While there’s usually an adjustment period when using new platforms for school or work, I’ve learned to approach each one with an understanding of its purpose. Being mindful of what we share online is crucial since everything we post is permanent and can affect our reputation.
I also make it a point to regularly check my privacy settings, as online platforms often collect more data than we realize. Practicing ethical online behaviour like respecting others, sharing responsibly, and avoiding harmful content, helps create a positive and safe digital community. By following these guidelines, we can foster an environment of trust and respect for everyone.