When you give a speech, there are a number of absolute no-nos. I’m guessing there are for writing a blog as well but I do not know what those no-nos are and I have decided to just go with the flow which is not like me at all. Yes, I am so out of my comfort zone writing a blog, there is no other way of tackling this course assignment but to dive in and just go for it…

I have signed up for the course (ONL181) and part of the course requirement is to write a blog where we reflect on different topics. This week’s topic is Online participation and digital literacies. I figured that my own as well as other people’s fear (actually mostly my fear…) would be a good starting point for reflecting on this week’s topic. Watching David White[1] I hear a possible explanation for my reluctancy to blog. Publishing online means I share my thoughts with an audience that talks back. They can criticize, and failings are easily picked up. And on top of that I leave a digital footprint. My thoughts will remain out there. According to David White we must view online publishing differently to be comfortable. What we write online is not a finished product but a place for discourse and a way to move our thoughts forward. White also mentions that when we blog to learn, there should be no a correct answer. I’m trying to hold on to his words as I keep typing… moving my thoughts forward…

In the article Developing digital literacies (2014)[2] seven elements of digital literacies are listed. Out of the seven elements I think I have “ICT literacy” covered. I use digital devices, applications and services in my teaching all the time. However, another element is “Communications and collaboration” which entails participating in digital networks for learning and research. ONL181 and “learning by blogging” must fall under this part of digital literacy. This is uncharted territory for me, which is another possible explanation for my reluctancy to share my thoughts in a blog. When we lack knowledge and experience, of course we will shy away from something. And the only way around it (at least for me) is to put on my hiking boots (or whatever you need when you go exploring…) and head out – start sharing my thoughts online. I want to be digitally literate! Surely, ONL181 and blogging will force me to strengthen this part of my digital literacy.

I believe that is enough thoughts for one night. I bid you good night.

[1] David White: Visitors and residents (part 1) & David White: Visitors and Residents – Credibility (part 2)

[2] Developing digital literacies (2014) JISC guide.