After thinking through what we have discussed in the class one of the issues that stand out, or rather one of the strands that I have the most significant affinity for, relates to the issues of complexity of representation in the context of digital identities. This results in an weighing between privacy and transparency, or between the public and the private self that develops in a world of social media.

Digital Footprints: Online presence is of great significance in our lives and affords as much autonomy as it controls. They enable us to make connections, boast and showcase our creativeness. They can also follow a person through their entire life without adaptation, change, new insights, circumstances, or context. Everything in this regard seems to be about feeling and the notion of the “right to be forgotten” comes in handy here as it gives us a chance to regain control of aspects of public selves we don’t want to be associated with anymore. This raises some questions in me like Are we to be held prisoners of our past sins and follies?  and Can you assume that an employee who was once unproductive is suddenly a good worker due to lapse of time and or training?

Cyber shaming and humiliation: Since such trails remain virtually permanent, instances of cyber-vigilantism and cyber-shaming are closely related to one another. The public accountability is sometimes required, but again the results that can be seen on social media are entirely black-and-white. Some of these events get viral and since they are often embarrassing for most individuals involved, the ‘offender’ might make amends and ‘ apologize’ to the victims, however, the insult continues to persist in the virtual space. This is a trend seen in society where there are no Guaranteed Forgiveness on the Internet but a lot of Outrage. Elements of cyber-shaming, privacy, and consequences of actions posted online must be parts of a digital citizenship curriculum. It’s important for students to know the consequences of their choice of actions online and appreciate the virtues of ethical use of the social computer.

Empathy: Remind students to give a second thought before posting something on Internet or taking some action which is visible online.

Understanding the digital world: Inform students that what they post sharing on the websites can be viewed in various perspectives by the viewers.

As we walk through the development of these discourse areas, the need for an understanding and empathetic approach to these interactions is critical. The approach towards digital footprint, privacy, and the right to be forgotten are factored fairly within this perception to develop a healthier online society.