Digital Literacy Profile and Self-Study

When I began to consider my digital existence, the concept of "literacy" was not at the forefront of my mind. Instead, my focus was on the tools themselves my phone, laptop, camera, and various social platforms. However, as I conducted this self-study and profile, I came to understand that the idea of "working with what you have" is a principle that often governs my digital life. I digital literate in the sense that I know how to effectively use technology to create, learn, and communicate in a myriad of ways. If I'm honest, much of my digital "life" is government by the principle of "fake it till you make it," or more kindly, the idea that you can always learn a new tool by figuring it out as you go along. I do use some programs more than others, whether it's Adobe Premiere or Canva, but I realize now that being comfortable around different media and knowing how to switch up your skills according to what you're making is a big part of digital literacy. I also readily use digital spaces to tell stories and express myself. That, too, is a kind of media literacy knowing the different purposes and audiences of the spaces you're sharing yourself with. Adapting to technological changes is an essential component of digital literacy. I may not be well-versed in every current trend, but I can quickly familiarize myself with anything that's new to me. This self-study illuminated for me that the foundation of my digital literacy is not just working knowledge of the hardware and software that I use but also a creativity, adaptability, and knowledge base that tech demands and that I fulfill. Technology is ever-changing, and so are the demands it places on us. But I am more than equipped to meet those demands for one main reason: I have a growth mindset.

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Reflective Letter

Dear Professor,

As I worked on this project, I endeavored to maintain honesty and authenticity while keeping my writing true to my own voice. I concentrated on three core values: flexibility, creativity, and adaptation. My intent was to allow the tone to flow naturally, almost as if I were speaking about my work. For the design of my profile, I plan to maintain simplicity, letting my work and words take center stage. Yet, if I could ask for your counsel, I wonder if there's anything that you see as making the profile stronger, anything that significantly increases its efficacy, anything that you think I'm maybe just a little bit too afraid to do? Thanks for your help, and for reading.

Jamison Protopappas