When creating my typology, I noticed there are particular applications that I spend as a visitor. Usually on these networks, I am looking to gain some knowledge or information. In places like Reddit, Twitter or Tumblr I am simply an observer of posts, articles or questions that have been asked. On the visitor’s side, I am typically looking to get in and then get out once I find what I need.
On the resident side even though I do not overly engage I do spend a lot of time in these networks sending some comments, answering questions, and giving feedback… I use applications such as WhatsApp to connect and chat with certain groups of people. Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok are other groups I connect with and act differently on each platform. I feel more comfortable on these apps as the connections and conversations are more on a personal interest level and comfort.
A piece of advice that was once given to me back at the beginning of my post-secondary education was always to be aware of your presence on the internet and how much you place out there. I always do my best to ensure my digital footprint is not large on any particular site and if I am there quite often, I maintain a certain type of anonymity.
On average I feel I am more as a resident in certain networks due to how much I engage and use them. As time goes on though there are certain applications may move around depending on the advances they make. An example of one application is ‘Facebook’ this app is starting to move into the visitor’s spectrum as I find myself simply checking in and leaving no longer engaging within the network.