RearViewMirror - Objects in mirror are closer than they appear

Reflections of a Stranded Nomad:

When I started the Digital Cultures module in October 2009, I had little idea what to expect; I had no preconceived notions of what it might entail, no knowledge of the subject, but was happy to jump on the rollercoaster and see where it might take me!

As the module progressed, however, I found myself swathed in information. Much of it baffled me, and far from my understanding growing, I became introverted and filled with self-doubt.

What is Digital Cultures? I still have little or no clue!

I can, however, say that a mild light has recently decided to switch on in my thinking! I am no closer to being able to specifically pigeon-hole the subject, but this is my own personal revelation:

Digital Cultures isn't just about technological advancements, the web and multimedia. It isn't about being technically minded (although I suspect it is an advantage!).

Digital Cultures is an open-ended cautionary tale. It has taught me to question the ubiquitous nature of a digital world.

We cannot stop it, but we can be reminded that these daily activities that now form such a part of our lives were not here 20 years ago.

I have immeasurable respect for the people who have worked so hard to shape a future which shares many benefits; the freedom of information, access to knowledge, the opportunity for people, irrespective of cultural background, to be equal.

But there is a darker side, one that I had never really questioned; These screens reflect our digital selves, forever.

I am pretty sure that I will happen upon this blog at some point in the future with a degree of fondness and shame in equal measures. Fondness at the grappling of a "new" subject, but shame that it never really clicked in the way I would have liked it to.

We are all unique, and this subject experience has been unique. There is every possibility that the Digital Cultures buzz word will disappear into the ether in a couple of years, and I will be left to try and explain what it was!


"To start press any key. Where's the AnyKey?"
Homer Simpson

Rear V Mirror