Digital Footprint

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/digital-footprint

Introduction

### Course Review: Digital Footprint on Coursera In today’s digital age, the question "If I Googled you, what would I find?" carries significant weight. Our online presence influences not only how we are perceived by others but can also impact our professional and personal opportunities. The "Digital Footprint" course on Coursera offers a comprehensive exploration of this topic, making it a vital learning experience for anyone seeking to understand their digital identity. #### Course Overview The Digital Footprint course dives into the myriad ways we leave traces of our online activity, including social media accounts, tagged images, professional associations, and even the less overt digital artefacts that can shape perceptions. This course is designed for participants to reflect on their own online tracks and understand the broader implications of their digital footprints. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **What Makes an Online Presence Effective?** In the first week, participants are introduced to the course structure and the importance of engaging with the content. The week’s focus is on critically reflecting on one’s own online presence and establishing personal goals related to their digital footprint. With a variety of activities and resources, learners will find themselves equipped to make informed decisions about their online identities. 2. **Why Does Your Digital Footprint Matter?** Week two features insights from a range of experts, covering critical topics such as the significance of maintaining an online presence, the implications of data after death, and privacy concerns. The quizzes and activities encourage learners to think deeply about their online representations, prompting them to take actionable steps toward improving their digital impact. 3. **What Does it Mean to Be an Effective Online Professional?** The final week delves into the nuances of being professionally present online. Participants can explore the balance between personal and professional identities in the digital realm. Expert contributions from various fields such as business, nursing, science, and education provide a well-rounded perspective. The inclusion of peer assessments and opportunities for direct feedback fosters a collaborative environment where learners can benefit from each other’s experiences. #### Course Experience The course is designed not just to impart knowledge but to stimulate critical thinking and practical application. Each week is filled with engaging content, including videos and expert interviews, which help demystify the complexities of online presence. The interactive nature of the course—through activities, quizzes, and peer assessments—encourages participants to actively reflect on how they can enhance their digital footprint. One of the strongest features of this course is its emphasis on real-world applicability. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone simply looking to navigate the online world more effectively, the insights gained here are invaluable. Learning to manage one’s digital presence can lead to personal growth, enhanced job prospects, and better communication of personal values. #### Recommendations I highly recommend the Digital Footprint course on Coursera to anyone interested in understanding and improving their online presence. The course is particularly beneficial for professionals navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape, students preparing to enter the workforce, or anyone curious about the implications of their online activity. By the end of the course, participants will not only know what their digital footprint entails but will also possess the tools to shape it for future success. Engage, reflect, and take action—this course lays the groundwork for a healthier, more strategic approach to managing your digital identity. In a world where your online persona can significantly influence your opportunities and relationships, investing time in understanding and cultivating your digital footprint is not just advisable; it’s essential.

Syllabus

What makes an online presence effective?

In week 1 we provide information on how to engage with the course as well as our Twitter account, using #DFMOOC. This week, we will introduce you to the topic of Digital Footprint. There are a range of activities, videos and resources for you to work through. By the end of week 1, you will have the opportunity to critically reflect on your own online presence and consider how you can make better informed choices as well as setting appropriate personal goals around your digital footprint.

This week, there is a range of experts who focus on why a digital footprint matters and how to create an effective online presence. The themes explored include data after death, privacy online and managing your online data. The activity and quizzes will help you to consider your own online presence and what you might do to make it more effective and work for you!

This week, we examine the idea of a professional online presence and what this might mean for different people and professions. Understanding whether your personal and professional online presence should blur or be kept separate can be a challenge. We will hear from experts in Business, Nursing, Science, Education, and a Careers Consultant. They will provide useful advice on what you can do to make your online presence more professional and potentially help you with finding a job, standing out from the crowd, complying with professional bodies' guidelines, and much more. The activities, including the quizzes and peer assessment will help you to reflect on your own online presence. There will also be an opportunity to get advice from your peers and consider putting into action what you have learned during this course.