LAST GOODBYE to EDCI 338

Blog Summation

My goals at the beginning of this course were nothing too radical. I simply wanted to learn how to better understand how social media could be used more professionally, because before this course, I only used social media as a form of entertainment. I also had no clue what a Personal Learning Network (PLN) really was and how it could be used professionally. I mainly used apps like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest, and school apps like Brightspace.

My understanding of digital literacy, PLNs, and professional identity has grown a lot, considering I had very minimal understanding. I am able to see the use of social media as a tool for learning, networking, and professional development, not just entertainment. Activities like the Visitor and Resident map helped me reflect on how I actually use different platforms. I learned how important it is to look into information critically, especially with the rise of social media use and misinformation online. One challenge I faced was learning how to navigate new online platforms. I realized I tend to stay within familiar platforms (primarily Instagram and TikTok), which can limit the diversity of my PLN. I tried my best to collaborate with others’ posts to help diversify my learning. Reading other students’ posts helped me see different perspectives on AI, media literacy, and professional identity. Feedback on my own work helped me improve my understanding of the topics we were learning.

For my future of EDCI 338, I have three main goals for my continued learning. First, I want to be more active in my PLN by not just looking at content but also joining in and interacting with others. Second, I want to improve my media literacy skills by checking sources more carefully and being more aware of misinformation online, especially with AI. Third, I want to build a more professional online presence that reflects who I am as a future teacher and the values I want to bring to my career. I really enjoyed this course and think that keeping up with these goal will help me with my future career!

MUSIC TIMMMEEE:

Jeff Buckley will forever and always be my favourite artist. Last Goodbye is my number one favourite song of his, so I am happy this is our last blog post! “Last Goodbye” is a gut-wrenching song about the bittersweet end of a relationship. It relates to the idea of ending a relationship you don’t want to end, but feel is better to let go. Jeff Buckley’s sorrowing voice matches the lyrics perfectly. I love this song!