Looking back on this course, what stands out most to me is how it changed the way I understand digital media, not as neutral tools, but as systems that shape identity, storytelling, and perception. Before taking this course, I tended to see platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or AI tools mainly as creative or entertaining spaces. Now, I realize that they actively influence what we see, how we present ourselves, and what kinds of narratives become visible.
One of the most impactful topics for me was the exploration of AI-generated selfies and digital identity. Creating my own AI selfie made me realize how identity can be translated into visual codes through prompts. At the same time, I also noticed that AI tends to reproduce certain aesthetic norms, which made me question how “authentic” digital self-representation really is. This experience shifted my understanding of identity from something stable to something constructed and mediated through technology.
Another important takeaway came from the module on misinformation. I used to think misinformation was mainly about false information, but I now understand that it is also about how content is designed to be believable and shareable. Readings like Shin (2024) and Rubin (2022) helped me see how algorithms and echo chambers shape what people accept as truth. This made me more aware of my own media consumption habits and how easily attention can be guided by platform design.
I was also particularly interested in the concept of ephemeral media. Reflecting on my own use of Instagram Stories, I realized that disappearing content actually feels more urgent and important, even when it is not. This showed me that temporality is not just a feature of storytelling, but a strategy that shapes attention and engagement. It made me rethink how I value different types of content in my everyday digital life.
Overall, this course made me more critical and reflective in how I engage with digital media. Moving forward, I want to be more intentional about the content I consume and create. This includes questioning algorithm-driven trends, paying more attention to diverse voices and perspectives, and thinking more carefully about how I represent myself online. I also think I will approach selfies and digital images differently—not just as personal expressions, but as constructed representations shaped by technology, culture, and platform logic.
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