Reflection 6

Within this 6 week Global Health and Social Media class I have learned a lot. I’ve learned a lot about the usage of platforms and different tactics and uses of each. Although I was proficient within some platforms, I was able to experience some for the first time and learn of the different uses for each new platform like Pinterest. I learned how platforms like Pinterest can be used to post recipes and promote different products and services. It was also interesting to see the growth of platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Although lately I’ve been more into Instagram, I always saw it as a smaller platform, but with the insight acquired in this class on how big visual media is, I’ve learned how it can be a top contender among other platforms. It was really neat to be able to see how some platforms can be used to help one another distribute a message and what each individual platform’s strengths were. The social media engagement was a tad tedious, but a neat way to get familiarized with the platforms and different uses for each. The Google Hangouts and works with the non-profits honestly was the most fun and had a lot to teach in multiple aspects. One of the things that stood out to me most during the Google Hangouts was the power of ‘inspiration’ and essentially having people be very effective in spreading news via word of mouth. As for the project with our nonprofits, it dared you to be innovative and apply what concepts we’ve learned throughout the class. The tracking and evaluation was probably the most interesting to me because it kind of guided in what sections a stronger focus may be required. Although the project was kind of fun, it also was a huge hassle getting everyone together (mainly cause of it being an online course). I also believe the group project shouldn’t be such a large portion of the class grade due to the fact that with online projects it can be more of a struggle and thus may lead to unfair grade representation. I honestly feel the project was the most challenging, but most rewarding. The works we did prepare us and gives a good overview of how media can be integrated in really promoting for an organization. This class has really sparked my interest in communications on a global stance and did it in a fun fashion.

Thanks for a good 6 week course!