Reflection on Topic 1

Reflection on concept: what did I learn?

1. The segmentation of the two categories on digital marketing
2. Everyone reached an understanding by explaining the terms using personal opinions

This post will be my reflection on the knowledge I acquired about topic 1: Digital residents and visitors. I gained an insight from the links provided and also cross studying the blogs written by my peers.

From all the blogs that I read, I realized that everyone understood the concepts and is capable of applying their own insight. Everyone has their own unique method of conveying their thoughts and it’s gives me views from many perspectives.

From Karise’s post, she explained the concepts based on her personal experiences, drawing linkages from her parents technological expertise with a touch of humor. Resulting in a highly relatable post and the comical vibe makes it a joy to read.

Zaidan’s post is based on his general knowledge of current happenings. He draws on his understanding of the concept and applies real-life examples to state his point. This makes it factual and comprehensive, and highly informative.

From the comments I received, it is said that my content is comprehensive and easily understood. However, I learnt that alignment of my post also comes into play as Zaidan stated that highlighting the points can help in readability.

In summary, this method of learning is something fresh. Individual research and we all learn by cross studying and commenting on the posts of others. It helps us learn things from more perspectives and creates a platform for healthy discussion.

Topic 1: Digital Visitors and Residents

Prensky’s Digital Natives and Digital Immigrants concept is the distinct segmentation of two groups; those born into the digital age and those accustomed to it. Many disparities started to arise as time passes, revealing new evidence that helped mould the concept of Digital visitors and residents.

Digital Visitors

They are the people who see the web as a utility tool; just like a hammer or jack’s knife, with the purpose of getting the job done. However, it is important to note that it does not mean that they are any less competent or use the web with less frequency as that of the residents. As the name suggests, the “visitor” enters the web to search for what is needed; such as perform research or to make purchases. There is a clear separation from their personal life and their use of the web.

Personally, I am a visitor who keeps my personal life to physical interaction, enjoying meet-ups and going for gatherings. My view on the web is that, it’s a place for entertainment and provides me with the means to hasten the completion of my tasks.

Digital Residents

They are the people who views the web as an extension to their being; just like the garden built outside their homes. Why I say so is because they regard the web as a social platform for them to interact and express themselves. The name “resident” states that they reside in the web, such that their personal lives are incorporated around it. Through social media, they build up a persona that affects how others view and regards their individuality.

The recent years we have seen a surge of YouTube celebrities who acquired fame and popularity by building up a fan base online. Without the social media platform, they would not be able to create such a persona. The result is popularity that transcends the web and creating an impact in their personal lives.

This concept is widely accepted because it is based on the mind-set of the user. There is no clear segregation for each group as it acknowledges there is not one distinct trait that can clearly differentiate the masses. As compared to the theory of digital natives and immigrants; where it applies the stereotype of the age gap, differing generations and their technological competencies.

Word Count: 384 words

References:

David S. White (2011) Visitors and Residents: A new typology for online engagement Avaliable at: http://firstmonday.org/article/view/3171/3049%20https://comminfo.rutgers.edu/~tefko/Courses/Zadar/Readings/Selwyn%20dig%20natives,%20Aslib%20Proceedings%202009.pdf

David S. White (no date) Visitors & Residents. Available at: http://daveowhite.com/vandr/