What is a digital footprint? Watch the video below for a brief description before moving on!

How can we help our learners manage their digital footprint?

In my link2practice last semester I was able to observe a technology class for grade 6 learners. In this lesson, they were being taught about their digital footprint and were asked to think about ways to manage their footprint. I was very impressed that such an important conversation was taking place. It is difficult for an adult, let alone a grade 6 student to grasp how their digital footprint can affect them for years to come. I feel that an open discussion about the use of the internet and social media is a great place to start. There are huge benefits to using the internet, however, we must teach learners how to use it safely. I found two links to assist us in starting that conversation with learners.

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/erase/online-safety

https://healthpoweredkids.org/lessons/online-safety-for-kids-your-digital-footprint-and-digital-imprint/

What was the most interesting thing you found when you googled yourself?

I was incredibly proud of myself when I googled my name. The screenshot above was in the top 5 things when you googled my name. I worked very hard to graduate with my Bachelor of Athletic and Exercise Therapy and studied extremely hard to pass my certification exam to be able to work in my chosen field. This google search was a reminder that I have reached that goal. Not only did I reach my goal of working at one clinic, but two! Lastly, I am very proud of myself for planning a wedding not only once but 5 times….thanks COVID. It is a reminder of the best wedding week with family and friends.

Will you change your use of social media after the talk and Q&A with Jesse Miller?

Although I knew that everything sent on Snapchat stays there forever, the reminder was quite terrifying. I was in high school when Snapchat really became a thing, highschool is also a time in your life when you do not always make the wisest decisions. It is frightening knowing that there could be Snapchat’s of things you are not proud of permanently out there. Because of this, I found myself googling how to clear conversations and history on Snapchat…. the short answer is you can’t.

This reminder lead me to reflect on how I am currently using social media. Thankfully I have grown up a lot since high school and I feel that my social media use is appropriate and professional.

Prior to entering this program, I was the Aquatic Supervisor at Esquimalt Recreation Center. During this time I was in charge of all hiring for the pool. The average age of our candidates was 17 years old. One of the first things I did when I received a resume was to search them on social media. When employees called in sick to work for a suspicious reason I checked social media. Unfortunately, I did “catch” employees calling in sick when they had really gone camping and failed to get their shifts covered. When these situations occurred it caused the entire staff to reflect on their social media use, and how their decision to post something could seriously affect their job.

It is my hope that this blog post furthered your learning on your digital footprint and helped you to reflect on your social media use.