Weekly Reflection #3 – Reflection on Jesse Miller’s Guest Presentation

Photo by https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/internet-safety

What?

One of the main ideas I took away from Jesse Miller’s presentation was the importance of understanding how technology and social media affect our lives. As technology continues to change, it is important to think about how we use it, what we share online, and how our online actions can affect ourselves and others. 

Photo by https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/internet-safety

So What?

One topic that stood out to me was online privacy and digital identity. Even if someone has a private social media account, there is still a possibility that their posts could reach people they did not intend to see. This made me think about how important it is to teach children about online safety and the lasting effects of what they share. I also thought about how adults sometimes respond to the risks of social media by wanting to ban it completely. Instead, I think we need to find ways to help children understand the risks and make responsible choices. 

Another idea that stood out to me was how teachers use social media. Hashtags such as #teacherlife can help teachers share classroom ideas and resources, but social media can also become a place where teachers complain about students, parents, or a lack of support through hashtags like #teacherproblems. As a future teacher, this reminded me that I need to be aware of my own digital identity and respect students’ privacy, even when sharing classroom experiences online.

Photo by https://medium.com/@sierraamber11/internet-privacy-its-time-to-try-something-different-e6253d38e681

Amanda Todd

The discussion about Amanda Todd felt personal to me because my grandmother taught her and has shared stories about her with me. Hearing about Amanda through someone who knew her makes the topic feel closer to home. It also reminds me that there are real people behind the stories we see online and that our actions on social media can have serious effects on others. As a future teacher, this makes me think about the importance of creating a safe and supportive classroom where students feel comfortable asking for help. I want to help students understand the impact of their online behaviour and encourage them to treat others with kindness and respect, both online and in person.

Now What?

Overall, this presentation encouraged me to think more carefully about the relationship between technology, safety, and responsibility. I want to help students learn how to use technology in positive ways rather than only focusing on what they should avoid. I think this is especially important as technology continues to change and becomes a larger part of children’s everyday lives.

Video I found online:

After Jesse Miller’s presentation, I was interested in doing more research and learning what other people had to say about digital safety and responsible technology use. I found a YouTube video called Digital Safety and Responsible Use of Technology by Mediatiz Foundation. I wanted to explore the topic further and learn more about how people can use technology safely and responsibly.

Question for Future Reflection:

How can teachers help students navigate the risks of social media while still encouraging them to use technology in positive and meaningful ways?