4. DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP

“Participatory learning is the form of learning that occurs through interactions in the public web and with social media, like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. Informed by mainstream adoption of social technologies and mobile devices, participatory learning is reshaping the way we learn. Learning is participatory when the outcome is a product that has been constructed through contributions made by members of a group or community” (Michelle Pacansky-Brock). Digital Citizenship has taught me that I was only scratching the surface of my role in the development of my students’ digital footprint and that I lacked participatory learning in my course. I had neither created enough assignments that allowed students to develop their digital presence, nor enough opportunities for my students to create content and connect with a global audience.

I did not include enough student involvement in the student learning outcomes; nor did I solicit students’ input when creating quizzes and exams. I also realized that there is room to add more non-disposable assignments in my class. I realize now that there is vast opportunity for me as instructor to create assignments where students learn how to access and create content that will contribute to their learning experience. I also realize that I can’t be afraid to engage with my students on social media as long as boundaries and mindful participation is in place.

My knowledge of Digital Citizenship has really evolved. The class introduced me to many new resources and concepts, and it has motivated me to continue learning about online teaching and digital citizenship. I am excited to continue using a Zero Cost Textbook (ZTC) and OER material and inspired to create OER supplemental material to enrich my Career Planning course.

My opinion about online platforms such as Twitter and LinkedIn have evolved, and I now plan to integrate LinkedIn in my class. LinkedIn is a wonderful career exploration tool, and it allows students to start creating their digital footprint in a professional manner. Additionally, I will be adding more assignments to the class where students have the opportunity to create material that can be shared outside of the class. In a course like Career Planning, there is a lot of opportunity to assign tasks that allow students to create material that represents their personal brand.

I learned various new concepts in Digital Citizenship, for example digital redlining. I am more aware of my teaching practices, and I have learned that while I am a student-centered instructor, there is more that I can do. I need to continue developing my own professional digital presence while helping my students do the same in an ethical and responsible manner.