Overall, this course has been a valuable learning experience for me. When I first started, I did not fully realize how much media, technology, and information literacy play a role in my everyday life. Throughout the course, I learned how to better analyze media messages, recognize bias, understand how information is created and shared, and think more critically about the sources I interact with daily. I now pay closer attention to where information comes from, who created it, and what their intentions might be.
My knowledge has definitely grown since being in this course. I can tell because I now question things I previously would have accepted at face value, especially content I see on social media, news platforms, or online videos. I am more aware of misinformation, persuasive techniques, and how algorithms influence what I see. I also feel more confident explaining these ideas in my own words, which shows real understanding rather than just memorization.
One thing I would have liked to see more of in this course is hands-on, real-world practice. For example, more activities where we analyze current social media posts, advertisements, or viral videos in real time would have been helpful. I also think more short discussions or examples related to everyday situations—such as workplace communication or digital privacy—could make the lessons even more relatable.
To improve the course for future students, I would suggest including more interactive assignments and practical applications. Breaking down complex concepts into smaller examples and using more visual or video-based explanations could also help students who learn better that way.
As a final note, I appreciate the structure of the course and the opportunity to reflect on my own media habits. This class has helped me become more aware, thoughtful, and responsible as both a consumer and creator of information. Thank you for providing guidance and encouraging critical thinking throughout the semester.