As I attempted to map my use of technology on the visitor-resident  continuum, I became aware of how much of a visitor I really am in the digital world. Even in digital activities where according to David White, one might typically take up ‘residency’, I definitely see myself as a visitor, or to use White’s metaphor; as one searching for the correct tool in a cluttered tool shed (White & Le Cornu, 2011). He was careful to point out that it is possible to stagnate on the continuum, and one end isn’t necessarily more desirable than the other. Be that as it may, it is my hope that my feeling of comfort, or being at home with these technologies might gradually shift toward residency, especially with the social networking aspects illustrated on my map. I’m also optimistic that I might be able to de-clutter and organize my ‘tool-shed’ through the ongoing practice of digital literacy, and to become more proficient in my use of practical digital tools.

References

White, D. S., & Le Cornu, A. (2011). Visitors and residents: A new typology for online engagement. First Monday, 16(9).