Dave Cormier’s blog post Digital Practices Mapping invited us to consider a new tension pair -use of analogue/digital in our professional practices. I would agree that there would need to be a common definition of ‘analogue’. For me, I consider anything on my computer or iphone as digital, even e-mail. Given that I work from home, I rely on Microsoft Teams for group co-creation, collaboration and project management. I still take meeting notes by hand, I think mostly out of habit – but it could also be that I love purchasing cute notebooks. Everything else is created from start to finish in a software program of some sort and my calendars are managed through computer and iphone. Most of my personal and professional practices would fall on the left 2 quadrants, in the digital realm. Digital practices definitely support connection and collaboration in all areas of life.
One analogue practice that I thoroughly enjoy is my large whiteboard wall sticker and dry erase pens. I write out inspirational quotes, weekly exercise, professional, and now school to do lists and goals. Seeing them written in my own handwriting makes them feel more intimate, meaningful and achievable. As the week progresses, I can check off those tasks I have completed. Even when I fall short on getting everything done, it reminds me of all I have achieved. Erasing them once completed gives a sense of closure, and new additions a sense of progress. To each their own – we need to find practices that work for us and those we connect with. After all, whether pen and paper, computer or software, they are tools to support our efforts.
Hi Lara! I really enjoyed your reflection here on analogue versus digital. I share your sentiment that some things in my life feel better enjoyed in analogue – such as cookbooks, recipe cards with my grandmother’s handwriting on them, or playing music (I just can’t get into digital sheet music). Even those of us who are residents in many digital spaces can still find space for the comfort of familiar tactile spaces (your checklists and whiteboard). One tool I found especially helpful for notetaking is Microsoft OneNote as I can use their built-in tools to create tabs, draw, or e-mail my notes once they’re done. If you haven’t tried it yet it was part of my gradual move to digital note-taking! (Although I’d also say don’t give up on the tactile tools which work for you and bring you joy – like your notebooks!).