This semester has flown by in the blink of an eye! In this course, Introduction to Educational Media and Technology 300 (EDTC300), I have selected to learn Spanish as a designated targeted skill for the learning project. As all of you may know I have had a fantastic experience in doing so. In my first blog post, I mentioned that the primary reason as to why I decided to acquire this skill, is because I strive to enroll in a study abroad trip in Europe. I do understand that I am not an expert in Spanish, but I must kindly say, this project overall has boosted a lot of my confidence.

Below Contains A List of Each Week’s Blog Post for the 4.2 Learning Project:

1. Giving A Baseline
2. Officially Starting the Learning Journey with Duolingo! 
3. Time To Utilize Quizlet as a Second Digital Tool!
4. !Something New! !MEMRISE!
5. The Fifth Post, Using !Busuu!
6. Almost There, Learning on HelloTalk!

My Top Takeaways:

• Starting A New Language In General: I am completely fluent in English as well as Pashto (A commonly spoken language in Pakistan). I must say, learning a new language, Spanish, that is completely far from the previously mentioned languages, was quite an exciting journey and challenge to undertake. As kindly mentioned above, this skill overall did gradually boost my confidence.

• YouTube: I felt that uploading demonstration videos of gradually learning the selected targeted skill for this project was quite beneficial. This is because we did not only upload demonstration videos to YouTube for a requirement of this project, but, individuals had the opportunity to get to know each others’ characters. Thus, I really appreciated the fact that we had this form of media to work with throughout the semester.

Thank you kindly for giving me an amazing experience.

Here is the required summary of learning project video. Please do take a glimpse by clicking the link below. Have a great summer vacation. Thank you very much!

This semester has flown by in the blink of an eye! In this course, Introduction to Educational Media and Technology 300 (EDTC300). I do understand that I am not an expert in technology, but I must kindly say, this course overall has boosted a lot of my confidence

One of the most memorable components I enjoyed from the EDTC300 course, is the fact that there were numerous tools of communication. Some of these forms consisted of a community hub. Here, students had the opportunity to upload their own blog posts, reply to their classmates’ blog posts, and more. Other forms of communication consisted of a discord community. I found that both of these resources were quite beneficial overall as we were not only assigned to complete the required tasks of EDTC300 on these digital tools, but individuals had the ability to ask questions as well. This is quite useful as it opens room for further discussion, engagement, and participation. 

How have I contributed to the learning of others?

Throughout the semester, there have been numerous methods and examples with correlation to how I have contributed to the learning of others. One of the most notable methods is, of course, to comment on at least 2-3 classmates’ blog posts per week. As mentioned in the demonstration video that can be seen on this link and below, I first select a quote from a classmates’ blog post that piqued my interest. After this selection process of the quote, I then paste the individuals’ quote down below in my response to his/her blog post. Thereafter, I relate the quote to either a personal experience that has occurred in my life with relation to that quote. Next, I explain and delve into why I selected that quote from the individuals’ blog post, and ask a few open-ended questions regarding it. This is quite helpful as it aids in opening room for discussion, engagement, and participation.

Video Demonstration and Explanation:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xYp5fyFEVGI 

Another great factor that the wordpress website offers, is the fact that account users can implement various forms of media. I successfully utilized this feature in every blog post. For example, throughout the blog posts for both the 4.1 and 4.2 projects, I have provided images that relate to each subject-matter for each paragraph I discuss. As for the 4.2 learning project, I implemented dozens of videos in order to demonstrate my selected targeted skill of learning Spanish. Similarly, for both the 4.1 and 4.2 projects, I provided educational videos from external YouTubers (e.g., AsapSCIENCE and Crashcourse) to further educate individuals regarding the topics. Furthermore, when providing overviews and listing software applications that I used to learn my targeted skill, I always provided hyperlinks to each digital tool. In essence, providing such formats of learning is critical because not all individuals have a good experience learning through one channel learning. Other individuals may tend to learn more efficiently through visuals and audio, etc. 

Example of Providing Educational YouTube Videos:

• Please do kindly click on this hyperlink to see an example of sharing an educational YouTube video from AsapSCIENCE and CrashCourse. I shared videos like these because as mentioned above, I strived to explain the course concepts in more easier and simpler terminology (e.g., the concepts of digital literacy and more). Thank you.

Another way I contribute to the learning of others, is, while responding to weekly classmates’ blog posts, I tend to provide software applications that can aid and be of use towards the classmate obtaining his/hers selected targeted skill for their learning journey project. For example, I read that one of the individuals in this course is striving to be on top of their fitness journey. Therefore, I suggested multiple fitness software applications such as the default Health app that is already installed on apple iPhones and other apple devices. Another software application I suggested to the individual who strives to be on top of their fitness journey for this learning project, is to use MyFitCoach. Not only do I kindly suggest and list software applications that are highly beneficial for classmates’ learning journeys, but, I provide an overview regarding the function these software applications serve as well as the various feature the software applications offer.  Several other examples can kindly describe how I have contributed to the learning of others. 

Example:

Please do kindly take a glimpse at an example of what I just mentioned by kindly clicking on this hyperlink. This hyperlink will kindly take you to the response I posted on one of Sky-Anne’s weekly posts.

How Have Others Contributed to my Learning?

Numerous classmates have aided in contributing to my learning throughout the semester. For example, as portrayed in the demonstration video, is that I receive multiple comments on my blog posts. Not only this, but similar to myself, individuals who comment on my weekly blog posts not only comment as part of a requirement, but, they also relate the response to an experience from their own personal life. This is something that I do kindly appreciate. Another example of how classmates have contributed towards my learning, is by kindly listing many digital tools that will gradually aid in me obtaining my targeted skill of learning Spanish. This is something that I also appreciate because other than the notable digital tools such as Duolingo and Quizlet, I would not have been able to find other software applications without the support I kindly gain from this community hub.

Example:

• Please do kindly take a look at this hyperlink. After clicking on this hyperlink, you will kindly be directed to a blog post in which a classmate kindly suggested a digital tool that aided in my learning journey of gradually learning Spanish.

Overview: 

Throughout the lecture on June 16th, 2025, the instructor discussed numerous generative tools. Some of these resources consisted of: Lumiere, Sora, ElevenLabs, Speechify, and many more. The instructor also provided an in-depth overview regarding the history of generative A.I tools, the harmful impacts if an individual were to utilize generative A.I, the history of computers and technology, and much more. The selected tool for this week’s blog post is one that is presented during the lecture of June 16th, 2025. This selected tool is, Suno, a generative resource designed to produce music. I was highly interested in this generative software for the prime reason that it produces music. 

Why I Selected to Use Suno:

Music and artificial intelligence (A.I) is commonly referred to as the process of music software applications that generate music. One such resource that accomplishes this is titled, Suno, a generative A.I. Personally, I selected this software for this week’s post because I was quite intrigued by it during the lecture on Monday June 16th, 2025. This software piqued my interest due to the numerous features it serves. Some of the features this software provides is the fact that you can view published music that other users across the globe created. Another component I appreciated is how Suno has the ability to make a cover image of a song that very much so resembles the lyrics and title of the generated song that was invented by the user. Furthermore, Suno also has the ability to change song lyrics based on selected genres and themes of the user. The final reason as to why I selected Suno is because one of my very close family friends is quite experienced in producing music on SoundCloud and Spotify. Therefore, after this week’s blog post, I would truly love to enjoy conversing with this family friend of mine regarding the above-mentioned software application. 

Experiencing Suno:

As soon as I logged onto Suno, I was astonished by the above-mentioned features. As demonstrated in some of the videos,  I had the opportunity to listen to some of the example posted songs that were already published by other artists on the previously mentioned resource. Next, I signed up for a Suno account. Thereafter, I got the opportunity to produce my own music. I wanted my song to be a bit more personal to some of my life experiences. Thus, I kindly requested Suno to generate multiple versions of the selected subject-matter, that is, to kindly make a song about a young boy who worked in the fast food industry. The reason I requested Suno to produce multiple versions of the same subject-matter is because I wanted to see if the software application would use the exact same or somewhat similar lyrics for each version of the song. Surprisingly, Suno did the complete opposite. Overall, I had an amazing, engaging, and hands-on experience using Suno. 

An Example of My Song Lyrics:

Overview of Suno

Navigating Through An Account on Suno:

Previously Published Songs on Suno:

The Music Suno Made For Me:

Experience With Coding

I’m so excited to start learning how to code! During one of the lectures last week the course instructor kindly introduced the topic of coding by asking the following question: Does anybody know what coding is? I engaged into this conversation by answering how in my very first semester of university, I completed an introductory level computer science course. I then kindly mentioned the fact that the above stated course taught me several new skills. The course introduced me to the history of computers, when computers started, as well as who made computers. I also kindly mentioned during the lecture, that this course revolved heavily around word problems. Furthermore, I mentioned that the course was divided into learning multiple coding languages. One of the coding languages I learned from the above course was C ++. This is a coding language in which video game developers utilize to produce games. Another coding language I learnt was HTML. This was my favorite coding language because through this, I learnt how to build and design a website. I learnt the various codes that consisted of: how to italicize a text, how to bold a text, how to underline and highlight any text, as well how to change the color of a text, and much more. This is pretty much the basic information I understand and am aware about with correlation to coding.

Delving into Coding:

For this week’s post, I decided to go ahead with coding Flappy Bird. This free to download mobile video game was quite popular back when I was a student in elementary school. Therefore, I decided to code this video game. I will potentially accomplish this coding process through the usage of using the drag and drop feature that is provided through the required programming site. 

I appreciate this programming site as it is user friendly. The site provides instructional tutorials for every little step as showcased in the photo. The first instruction required me to attach a block. A you can see below I have successfully done the required programming step. I then went onto actually clicking on to the screen and was able to fly the flappy bird. 

What I learnt is that coding is quite difficult. Similar to cooking, coding requires a unique set of steps and an individual who strives to code has to follow that unique algorithm. Each code that has been produced has its very own algorithm of steps to follow. Similar to cooking, each unique dish from across the globe, has its very own unique recipe and set of steps to follow in order for that dish to be prepared and served.

Open-Ended Questions To Initiate Discussion:!

Some of the questions I would like to ask in order to open more room for discussion consist of the following:

1. What is the role of coding in technology?
2. What is the role of coding within the classroom setting?
3. Other than producing games, animations, and design, what is the role of coding in technology?

Overview of HelloTalk:

For this week’s blog post, I have decided to use the software application, HelloTalk, to aid in learning Spanish. One of the primary reasons as to why I selected the above-mentioned software application is because it has native speakers teaching you their language. Secondly, HelloTalk has multiple features for pronunciation, translation, and transliteration. HelloTalk also has a built-in feature that offers its users to make corrections during learning sessions. This way, the users of HelloTalk will be able to identify and gradually perfect whichever language they select to learn. 

Reflection of HelloTalk:

One of the features that I appreciate from HelloTalk, is the fact that this software application not only serves as a language learning device, but it also acts as a social media tool. The way the above-mentioned software application accomplishes this is that after a user selects the language he/she strives to learn, the user will be invited to multiple group chats for the language he/she selected. Within this software application there is also a voiceroom. In this box, if an account connects with another account, both of these individuals can learn off of one another through audio.

Learning Spanish on HelloTalk:

For example, as I have selected to learn Spanish for the targeted skill of this learning project, I am invited to converse with numerous users who strive to learn the same language. These group chats are titled as “serious” for those who are in the works of mastering Spanish. The second group chat is titled, “nearby, for those individuals living close by to you. As for the final group chat, this is labelled as, “city,” meaning whichever city an account user resigns in, individuals from their city can converse and learn the same language he/she selected. 

Some of the words that I learnt in this weeks journey of learning Spanish consist of the following: comedia, peliculas de terror, reposteria, and more. These terms refer to comedy, horror movies, confectionery, in a respective order. Furthermore, I learnt how to pronounce more complex terms. They were complex because they revolved more so around application. These terms related to words that an individual would use within a library or even during Easter holidays In essence, I learnt these terms learnt by just simply clicking onto an individual’s account and scrolling down to their interests and hobbies page. I also learnt the second component of terms through course training modules on the above-mentioned software application. 

Open Ended Questions to Open Room for Discussion:

Some of the questions I would like to ask in order to open room for more discussion consist of the following:

1. How does technology play a factor in learning a language?
2. How can technology play a positive role during the learning process of individuals?
3. Other than online digital tools, memorization, and constant repetition, what are different methods of learning a new language?

How to Navigate Through HelloTalk:

How to Join A Training Module on HelloTalk:

Learning Spanish Application Terms (BookStore Terminology):\

Learning Spanish Application Terminology (Easter Holiday Terms):

What is Digital Literacy?

Prior to enrolling in this course, I never heard about the term digital literacy. This is a term that is referred to as utilizing technology in a safe environment in order to solve problems. In simpler terminology, digital literacy means using technology or the internet world safely and in a correct manner in order to solve problems or issues. Some examples of digital literacy consist of discovering files in multiple software applications, successfully navigating online research alongside having the ability to carefully examine the sources that are being used for research, and being able to properly use a keyboard. Taking note of the concept, digital literacy, is a critical one to firmly grasp as it enables individuals to process and monitor information, run things smoothly, and more. 

How to Teach Digital Literacy:

There are numerous ways to go about teaching digital literacy. One such method is underlining the significance of critical thinking. In simpler terminology, this refers to giving students the ability to grow by educating them with regards to utilizing the online world and technology with a well-mannered approach. For example during this week’s lecture, we took a glimpse about various individuals who utilized social media in negative ways. Some of these negative aspects included the individuals using social media as a tool for cyberbullying, racism, and negative comments overall. Not only were these examples listed, but more importantly, we were educated about the harmful effects of posting such negative comments online. Such aftermaths consisted of an individual losing their job as a result of a negative comment, and so and so forth. Therefore, teaching students about the harmful effects of social media paves the way for the youth to think critically about life decisions. 

Another crucial component consists of educating the youth with regards to controlling their online identity. Nowadays, there are numerous influencers and celebrities across the globe who all have large following bases and audiences across all of their social media platforms. When scrolling through these influencers’ social media accounts, one may genuinely believe that whatever celebrity he/she follows, that that celebrity genuinely portrays the same personality traits both on and off camera. Although some celebrities do represent a positive personality both outside and during their social media life, others influencers may use it as a gimmick. In a more formal tone, there is a trend of misconceptions occurring on multiple social media platforms. This is a great lesson to educate students about. Not only will they youth again, make beneficial life decisions, but more importantly, individuals will be more careful and responsive about what to hear and not to hear online. 

How might you incorporate the goals of the NCTE framework?

One of the NCTE framework goals that I plan on incorporating consist of the following: participate effectively and critically in a networked world. I strongly uphold that apart from maintaining a sense of professionalism, it is essential for community members to develop a networked world. By working alongside, individuals will not only have the opportunity to further aggravate their communication and socialization skills, but more importantly, people will be more willing and open with regards to sharing and opening ideas amongst each other. 

A second NCTE framework goal I strive to incorporate includes, promoting culturally sustaining communication and recognizing the bias and privilege present in their interactions. This goal is quite synonymous to the above-mentioned one. I believe that it is highly significant to promote culturally sustaining communication as it cultivates an inclusive environment for all. It does so because by allowing everyone’s voices to be heard, individuals’ opinions and ideas will gradually be prevented from having their thoughts and opinions brushed under the carpet. 

Below are some resourceful YouTube videos that educate individuals regarding digital literacy. Please do kindly take a look at them.

What is Digital Literacy:

TedEX Speaking About Digital Literacy:

References

National Council of Teachers of English. (2019, November 7). Definition of Literacy in Digital Age. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://ncte.org/statement/nctes-definition-literacy-digital-age/. 

Ontario. (n.d.). Digital Literacy. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from, 

https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/program-planning/transferable-skills/digital-literacy. 

Smith, S. (2024, June 28). The Importance of Digital Literacy. DeVry University. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://www.devry.edu/blog/digital-literacy.html#:~:text=Your%20level%20of%20digital%20literacy,as%20smoothly%20as%20they%20should.

Team, L. (2023, April 20). 30 Examples of Digital Literacy in 2023. Learning.Com. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://www.learning.com/blog/30-examples-of-digital-literacy-in-2023/#:~:text=Find%20and%20open%20files%20in,computer%2C%20tablet%2C%20and%20smartphone. 

I Believe In Education:

As a person from an educated background, completing all schooling is ingrained within me. I believe education is crucial for several reasons. Initially, it paves the way for enhancing personal growth and organization. Finally, education provides students to embrace values including inclusivity and integrity.  

I Believe In Respect:

I believe that my purpose is to uplift underrepresented communities by preventing stereotypes from occurring in order for individuals to acquire their full potential.

I Believe In Making A Positive Change:

Goldberg’s (2019) book, Teach Like Yourself, I value the pedagogy of teaching like yourself (pp. 22-43). Goldberg’s concept enables me to embrace a difference as it helps individuals to understand their identity. This is the change I intend to make. Through these pedagogies, everyone’s voices will be heard regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. 

I Believe In Truth and Reconciliation:

The above pedagogies also resonate with truth and reconciliation. For example, understanding our own identity allows us to take a deep look into our history and culture, which are both vital steps in knowing the truth about oneself (Government of Canada, n.d.). Likewise, preventing people from being excluded allows individuals to be heard, which aligns with the reconciliation process.

I Believe That My Theories and Pedagogies Are Like A Woven Tapestry:

 A metaphor that might help illustrate my philosophies includes the following: my philosophies are like a tapestry. I find this is the best metaphor as the sole purpose of a tapestry is to weave in various colors, origins, and textures (Crane, 2024). A woven tapestry resembles my presence. As a person who comes from a diverse background, this thread will not only aid in fostering an inclusive environment, but more importantly, serve as mirror reflection. 

References 

Crane, N. (2024, July 19). Weaving Tapestry: A Woven Dive. Retrieved November 11, 2024, from https://threadcollective.com.au/blogs/weaving-looms/tapestry-weaving-deeper-dive#:~:text=Creating%20tapestry%20weaving%20involves%20a,to%20create%20a%20beautiful%20pattern. 

Goldberg, G. (2019). Teach like yourself: How authentic teaching transforms our students and ourselves. Crowin Press. 

Government of Canada. (n.d.). National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Retrieved November 11, 2024, from https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html. 

Hello!

My name is Muhammad.

Currently I am a fourth year student pursuing an undergraduate degree through the University of Regina. Personally, I view my university experience as more than just getting good grades. It is a critical journey in developing an individual’s’ character. Apart from constantly studying, I enjoy life on campus by participating in various student-led organizations. At the moment, I enjoy volunteering with the Muslim Food Bank and Community Services as well as the Souls Harbor Soup Kitchen. Being a food insecurity volunteer has made me more humble and thankful for those things that I do have.

Outside of being a student, I enjoy working part-time. I started my work experience in the fast food industry where I landed my first job at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. This experience has equipped me with many skills such as working in a fast-paced environment, cooking, and cleaning. Later on, I joined the retail industry. Working at a clothing store has built my personality in many ways. For example, this experience has provided me with a more customer-service oriented personality as well as it has improved my socialization and communication skills. Alongside working at a retail clothing store, I also hold two part-time tutoring positions. Both of these tutoring positions have taught me how to design unique lesson plans, consult with clients’ parents regarding the work and progress that occurred during their child’s sessions, and more. Finally, some of the hobbies that I participate in include playing video games, working out, and reading.

Thank you for reading my, about me section.

Cyber–Vigilantism:

According to academia, the internet began in the early 1980’s. During this time, the sole purpose for the production of the internet was for research, data-sharing, and computer accessibility (ScienceandMediaMuseum, 2020). Nowadays, the internet is widely used as a resource not only for studying and entertainment, but there are a variety of negative influences that occur throughout the online world such as cyber–vigilantism and cyber–shaming. Prior to the recent week’s class lecture, I have never heard about the term cyber–vigilantism. Before indulging in some research through articles as well as course readings and lecture slideshows, I perceived that the above-mentioned terms would somewhat refer to concepts along the lines of internet bullying.

Cyber–vigilantism is widely known as internet vigilantism. This widespread term is referred to as the process of an individual or group of people who utilize technology for the sole purpose of taking law into one’s own hands or possession (NordVPN, n.d.). The above-mentioned concept, cyber–vigilantism, commonly takes place across the online world. Some of the platforms that cyber–vigilantism can take place on is through online social media software applications and forums. In other terms, this wrongdoing can hinder people as it publicly discloses individuals, firms, or a country (NordVPN, n.d.). For example, if an individual asks “Hey Siri” on their iPhone, that individuals’ phone tends to listen to specific key terms of what was asked to Siri (TimesofIndia.Com, 2024). After hearing certain phrases or keywords of what was asked to Siri, the phone will disclose certain advertisements on other software applications either on the reels category of Instagram or on YouTube (uOttawa, n.d.). A final way to demonstrate an example of cyber–vigilantism is through TikTok. There are multiple community members and account users of the previously mentioned software application that strive to attack influencers either by asking the influencers’ information through their comments section or within their livestreams and public posts (uOttawa, n.d.). Not only this, but the TikTok app itself, has the ability to disclose a user’s data without that account user providing any information to begin with (uOttawa, n.d.). In essence, cyber–vigilantism is important to grasp as it tells us to be more aware regarding our time being spent on technology, the information individuals publicly reveal, and how daunting the online world is. 

How Can I Teach Cyber–Vigilantism:

There are several methods regarding how an individual can implement cyber–vigilantism within their classroom. One such way by explaining tips in order to stay safe (Poth, 2024). With respect to this, one of the lessons can consist of how to create strong and unique passwords. A second lesson can consist of explaining the process of two-factor authentication. Additional lessons can include navigating through the settings of your mobile device or laptop and delving into what each feature of the settings application is used for (Poth, 2024). This way students will have the ability to apply their safety knowledge to the real world.

Below are some resourceful YouTube videos that inform viewers regarding the ‘dark side’ of social media. Please do kindly take a look to further enhance your knowledge with correlation to the aftermaths of using social media in negative ways.

CrashCourse Educational Video:

AsapSCIENCE Video Regarding the Aftermaths of Scrolling:

References

NordVPN. (n.d.). Cyber Vigilantism. Retrieved June 9, 2025, from 

https://nordvpn.com/cybersecurity/glossary/cyber-vigilantism/#:~:text=Cyber%20vigilant

ism%20refers%20to%20the,people%2C%20companies%2C%20and%20countries.

Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada. (2023, February 23). Announcement: Commissioners launch joint investigation into TikTok. Retrieved June 9, 2025, from  https://www.priv.gc.ca/en/opc-news/news-and-announcements/2023/an_230223/.

P, Rachel. (2024, February 5). Teaching Students the Cyber Safety Basics. Retrieved June 9, 2025, from https://www.edutopia.org/article/teaching-students-cyber-safety/. 

ScienceandMediaMuseum. (2020, December 3). A short history of the internet. Retrieved June 9, 2025, from https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/objects-and-stories/short-history-internet. 

TimesofIndia.Com. (2024, February 23). Is Your Phone Secretly Hearing all your conversations? Here’s what to do. Retrieved June 8, 2025, from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/etimes/trending/is-your-phone-secretly-hearing-all-your-conversations-heres-what-to-do/photostory/107940821.cms. 

uOttawa. (n.d.). Recommendations regarding TikTok use and privacy risk. Retrieved June 8, 2025, from https://www.uottawa.ca/about-us/information-technology/services/security/tiktok-use-privacy-risks. 

Woods, M. (2023, February 27). This may be a 1st step’: Canada bans TikTok from federal government devices. Retrieved June 9, 2025, from https://www.ctvnews.ca/ottawa/article/this-may-be-a-1st-step-canada-bans-tiktok-from-federal-government-devices/.