Linzi's EDC blog

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In an e-mail from Coursera there are definitely algorithms at play as I am sent a list of recommended courses. The selection of courses have a connection with my current MOOC ‘The Brain and Space’ but I am not in a position to take on another course. I consider browsing the list and even read a few in depth before coming to my senses. I can’t help but feel tempted and wonder if Coursera are putting pressure on me to expand my education? Is it for my benefit or a marketing strategy to increase course numbers and financial gain? I then start to consider the algorithms that may influence student course choices and career pathway. Do students find themselves being led down the garden path where they are navigated to a course that may not be suitable or necessary. Are algorithms making choices and narrowing a selection of courses that will shape ones career and life direction?

References:

Beer, D. (2016). The social power of algorithms. Information, Communication & Society, 20(1), 1-13. DOI: 10.1080/1369118x.2016.1216147

Knox, J., 2014. Active Algorithms: Sociomaterial Spaces in the E-learning and Digital Cultures MOOC. Campus Virtuales, 3(1), pp.42–55.

Whilst exploring algorithms I have realised that the number of views can have an impact on the promotion of a video on youtube. Through recommended videos a video that may be homemade can appear higher than a video made for an educational purpose. I typed in ‘How to achieve the splits?’ into the search engine and was horrified to find a variety of homemade videos that demonstrate insane practice. Can anyone pretend to be a dance teacher these days? Should there not be some sort of regulated health and safety protocol? It really is scary to find out how easy it is to publish something on the internet!

References:

Knox, J., 2014. Active Algorithms: Sociomaterial Spaces in the E-learning and Digital Cultures MOOC. Campus Virtuales, 3(1), pp.42–55.

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Sometimes the best conversations happen backstage when discussing specific papers, links, videos and posts in depth; we feel less vulnerable. When we post our learning journey online we have trips, stumbles and sometimes a dip in motivation which can cause unfocused dialogue. Is it possible to ONLY learn in a public environment? Will we voice our confusion if we know others are watching? Do we need to digest and discuss themes and certain aspects with others in private to articulate the information in a relaxed state of mind?

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Above is a few screenshots of my Fabletics account after they combined my frequently searched, size and favourite styles purchased into a personalised swimwear collection. Now, I am an individual that lives in active wear and I purchase alot online, BUT I feel that they may have missed out on the algorithm that informs them that I live in Scotland. In Scotland, beachwear consists of wellies and a Canada Goose jacket!!
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As a Dance Educationalist I do not get the luxury of wearing smart dresses or outfits to work. Majority of my work week is spent in active wear which is carried on to my gym sessions and extra curricular activities with my daughter, dog and the horses. I am therefore, FOREVER in active wear. I enjoy clothes so I like to shop online (I mean whoever has the time these days to go shopping in person?) for smart outfits despite the informal appearance. Fabletics is a website I’ve used for a while and it conveniently caters to my taste, size and lifestyle. The first thing I was required to complete was a ‘pop quiz’ where I answered numerous questions on my activity, my shape, size and my colour and style preference. Each month I am sent e-mails and updates of co-ordinated outfits and personal recommendations. At first, I thought this was wonderful and I felt as if I had an online personal shopper. As it continues my bank balance suffers and I have more capri pants to open my own store! Algorithms is not just for the client, it is definitely for the convenience of the company. I now have no need to buy any active wear for a few years. The algorithms at play managed to alter choice by sorting, ranking and creating outfits that I could order. Why buy a top when you can but an outfit? The algorithm has the decision on what should be visible to me when I open my account or they take it a step further and send an e-mail. They create ‘truths’ around my choice, taste and lifestyle (Beer, 2016). If I’ve bought it then you bet I am wearing it to get my moneys worth!!

References:

Beer, D. (2016). The social power of algorithms. Information, Communication & Society, 20(1), 1-13. DOI: 10.1080/1369118x.2016.1216147

 

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