Digital Identity and Digital Badges

Digital identity

Digital identity is a relatively new concept that relates to your online profile and activities. As our world becomes more networked, many of our online activities leave a ‘digital footprint’ that, eventually, becomes our digital identity. For a good introduction to these concepts, see this Library guide (click on the Digital footprint tab). For a more in-depth introductory resource see this All Aboard tutorial on digital visitors and digital residents.

If you spend a lot of time on online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Snapchat, or if you are thinking about starting to use these platforms, it might be worth reflecting on your online identity and taking steps to ‘curate’ it with care. For an excellent resource that can help you to take more control of your digital identity, see this All Aboard tutorial on digital identity. This resource also has some useful tips for enhancing your professional profile through networking sites such as LinkedIn, or through e-portfolios, which you can use to showcase your achievements and learning for professional as well as educational purposes.

It is also wise, if you use online platforms, to pay attention to issues such as privacy and security, as well as etiquette, bullying and harassment. See our guide to communicating with your peers on social media and, for a more in-depth resource on online security, see this All Aboard tutorial on digital security.

Digital badges

Digital badges are ‘mini-certificates’ in digital format that you can earn for completing certain tasks or activities. For example, you can earn a digital badge for successfully completing many of the All Aboard lessons mentioned here. You can include your badges on your CV, your personal profiles, or in your e-portfolio.  They tell others (including prospective employers) about your skills and achievements.