De Anza College I Desire to Be Seen as Someone Smart Reflection Report

Reflection Report

There are definitely some interesting challenges to how we present ourselves online–especially nowadays when mediated communication is our primary mode while we shelter-in-place. In face-to-face interactions, there are lots of communicative cues that people can pay attention to. However, in online interactions, the amount of communication we communicate is more controlled. We tend to selectively self-present in order to manage the impressions of ourselves.

In some ways, online communication gives us flexibility to craft ourselves and put a particular self/face out there.  

REFLECT on the following (and then scroll down to see what you will write and SUBMIT)

1. How do you want to be seen online? 

That is, how would you answer this question:

I want to be seen as _____________________________ (What adjectives would you use here).

2. Compare your description to one online platform where you post most frequently. Review your online profile and/or communication messages, and at least 8-10 of your most recent photos, posts, and/or messages and think about the following: Does how you want to be seen vs. what you post match? Have you ever distorted your self-presentation online to make yourself appear more attractive or appealing? What were (if any) the consequences—for yourself or others—of creating this online mask?