D4.1 Navigating Online Communities

Instructions for Exploring Lesson
In this lesson, you have the opportunity to read one or more stories, each focusing on key digital literacies. You may choose to read as many stories as you like, depending on your interest and the time available. Each story integrates specific digital literacies that will help you enhance your skills in today’s digital world.

1. Building Meaningful Relationships in the Online World
2. Building Bridges Through Digital Research
3. Building Connections Through Direct Messaging​
4. Navigating the Digital World with Purpose

Feel free to explore as many stories as you like, and be sure to apply what you’ve learned to your projects and personal growth. Once you are done, go through the lesson overview and move on to complete Steps 1-5. Note: This lesson may take more than one sitting to complete. So keep in mind to pace yourself, save your work as you go and set time aside to revisit the lesson as needed.

​Story Time!

1. Building Meaningful Relationships in the Online World

The four friends sat in a cozy café in Delray Beach, reflecting on how their digital skills had allowed them to connect with others in the vast online world. As they sipped their coffee, they shared their stories about how they navigated the digital space to build meaningful relationships—be it for personal, academic, or professional reasons.

Tia: Tia was the first to speak. “For me, it’s all about understanding who your audience is and how they relate to information best. When I create content for the OER project, I think about how the information will resonate with different communities. I try to make sure that it’s accessible and useful for Latinas, Afro-Latinas, Black girls, and women. For instance, when I’m teaching web development or digital marketing, I use real-world examples that my students can relate to—examples that break down complex tech topics into something familiar.”

She paused and smiled, her eyes twinkling. “It’s about building trust. If people feel like you understand them and where they’re coming from, they’re more likely to listen and engage. The digital space can be a powerful tool for connection, especially when you know how to meet people where they are.”

Ebony: Ebony nodded, her thoughtful expression matching Tia’s sentiment. “I totally get that,” she said. “For me, connecting with people online is all about finding common ground. I follow a lot of Black women online because I can relate to their experiences, whether it’s dealing with the pressures of society or navigating the dating world. Sometimes, I’ll post something funny or relatable, and when people comment, saying ‘Oh my gosh, I’ve been there,’ it’s like an instant connection.”

She leaned forward, her voice full of energy. “When I started organizing at the grassroots level, I used digital tools to build a community that shared similar challenges. I wasn’t targeting anyone specific, but I was always looking for ways to make others feel seen and heard. Whether it was through social media or creating content, the key was to make sure that what I was putting out there was something people could identify with. It created a space where we could all relate to each other, no matter the distance.”

Nadine: Nadine, ever the reflective one, smiled softly. “That resonates with me too,” she said, her voice calm. “I create a lot of content as part of my work as a UX designer. I design interfaces for automotive companies, and even though my work is very technical, I always try to make sure that my designs are relatable to the people who will use them. It's about connecting with people on a very human level. When I teach or mentor others, especially in User-Centered Design, I share resources and collaborate on projects. I love using platforms like Mural to engage people in co-creating ideas.”

She paused, thinking about her next words carefully. “The way I approach my work is very much influenced by my cultural background. I’m expressive, and I think that’s something I bring to my digital interactions. I try to make everything I do—whether it’s content or designs—something people can emotionally connect with. It’s all about fostering that sense of belonging and making sure people feel valued in the digital spaces I create.”

Jazmin: Jazmin, who had been quietly listening, spoke up. “I completely agree with all of you,” she said, her voice filled with conviction. “When I first got into tech and digital marketing, I spent hours looking for spaces where I could connect with people who looked like me, who had similar struggles. I found Techqueria, a community for Latinx professionals in tech, and that was a game-changer for me.”

She smiled as she recalled the experience. “I felt like I wasn’t alone anymore. I could relate to the people in that group. It wasn’t just about professional development, either—it was about finding a community of people who understood my journey, who understood the challenges I faced. It’s why I’m so passionate about using my platform to share diverse stories. Everyone deserves to see themselves reflected in the digital world, and when they do, they can connect in such a powerful way.”

Tia: “Exactly,” Tia agreed. “That’s why representation matters so much. It’s not just about sharing information; it’s about making sure people feel seen. When I think about the OER project, I think about how we’re creating a space where underrepresented voices can shine. Every time we build something, we’re making sure that the stories of Latinas, Black girls, and women are front and center.”

Ebony: Ebony smiled. “It’s like you’re speaking directly to me, Tia. That’s the power of digital spaces. When you can create a community where everyone can relate and feel like they belong, that’s when the real connections happen.”

Nadine: Nadine nodded thoughtfully. “And I think it’s important to remember that digital spaces aren’t just about reaching people with information; they’re about engaging them. I make sure to always respond to comments, share resources, and co-create content with others. It’s not enough to just post something and move on. To really relate to people, you need to build those connections, to make them feel heard.”

Jazmin: “I love that,” Jazmin added. “It’s like we’re all teaching each other, even when we’re not aware of it. Every time we interact online—whether it’s responding to a comment, collaborating on a project, or just sharing a relatable post—we’re teaching each other how to navigate the digital world with empathy, understanding, and creativity.”

The four of them sat back, reflecting on their own journeys and the power of digital literacy. They had each used their skills to create meaningful connections, whether it was through professional collaborations, personal experiences, or empowering others. And in the process, they had learned just how much the digital world could be a place where people could truly relate to one another.

2. Building Bridges Through Digital Research

Six friends, each from different backgrounds and with unique experiences, sat together on a sunny afternoon, reflecting on how the digital world had become a vital tool in their lives, especially when it came to conducting research. Their conversation was focused on how they gather information in the digital space, what platforms they rely on, and how they ensure the reliability of the data they find. This discussion set the foundation for their shared project: an Open Educational Resource (OER) to empower communities with digital skills.

​Tia: “Research in the digital world is all about understanding the context in which people interact with information. I mean, my background in business and marketing gave me a strong sense of how to build content that resonates with different communities. But I’ll be honest, I didn’t always get the best guidance in school, especially in computer science, where there weren’t many role models for me. Now, though, I focus a lot on user research. For instance, when I develop content for the OER project, I work with UX teams to ensure the material is accessible and relatable. The digital tools I rely on are platforms like Google Analytics to understand user behavior and Mural for collaborating with other team members remotely. The key is making sure the information is not only accurate but also meaningful to the people it’s intended for.”

Ebony: “I totally agree, Tia. For me, research is about connecting with real people. My work as a grassroots organizer often involves legislative research, but it’s always done with a sense of community in mind. The digital world has allowed me to reach a wider audience. I look for tools that help me gather feedback, like social media and community forums. What’s crucial, though, is making sure the information is grounded in lived experiences. I also like to engage with people directly; whether it’s through an online survey or just reading through comments on a post, I’m always learning about what people actually want and need. And when I get feedback that resonates, it feels like an instant connection.”

Nadine: “I hear you, Ebony. My journey has been all about understanding human interactions through design. When I work on content for hardware, like the interior screens of cars, it’s not just about making things pretty—it's about researching what users want and need. Tools like Mural have been game-changers for me, especially in remote settings. They help me visualize ideas and collaborate efficiently. I also rely on platforms like Google and academic journals to get the latest insights. But beyond the tools, I approach research with curiosity. I always ask, ‘What’s missing here? What can we improve?’ I think that curiosity is what fuels my research—it’s not just about finding data, but about understanding how it impacts people.”

Nicole Bakula: “For me, research has always been a passion. Back in Puerto Rico, I was already diving deep into design research before I even knew it was a field. Now as a UX researcher, I constantly rely on digital tools. I run usability tests and gather data from online platforms like SurveyMonkey and user-testing websites. The digital world has created a space where I can run research projects entirely online. I also look for patterns in the data, especially when researching how people interact with tech products. I believe in the power of ethnographic research, where you observe and interact with people to understand their behaviors. What I’ve learned is that digital literacy isn’t just about using tools; it’s about understanding how those tools affect human behavior and decision-making.”

Sharlene: “I came into the digital research space a bit later in life, and it was quite the journey. After failing to adapt to digital tools in my journalism career, I decided to embrace it head-on. Now, I run a nonprofit to support Latina businesses, and I use digital research every day to help these businesses grow. I rely heavily on digital marketing tools like Google Analytics and social media insights to understand what’s working and what’s not. But what’s really important is building trust with the community. I’ve learned that data can be manipulated, so I always double-check my sources. That’s the key to making sure the information is reliable.”

Jazmin: “I think I can relate to all of you. For me, research is a means of amplifying voices that are often left out of the mainstream narrative. When I was in school, I did a lot of research on how technology can reduce inequality, especially in underrepresented communities. Now, as a MarTech publicist, I still focus on using digital tools to research and share diverse stories. I spend a lot of time exploring social media and content platforms, looking for emerging trends and voices. And when I’m working on projects, I always ask, ‘Whose voices are missing here?’ For me, it’s all about ensuring that the stories we tell are as diverse as the people who will benefit from them. And just like you all, I rely on platforms like Google and academic resources, but the real value comes when I connect those dots to bring new perspectives into the conversation.”

3. Building Connections Through Direct Messaging

Nicole Bakula stood in front of a group of girls and their mothers at the local public library, ready to talk about how she navigates the world of digital communication. It was the beginning of their after-school program on digital literacies, and she was about to share how important digital tools like direct messaging (DMing) had become in her personal and professional life. As the group settled into their seats, she began to speak, knowing how essential these skills were for everyone in the room.

"Hello everyone! I’m Nicole, and I’m excited to share how I use digital tools, particularly direct messaging, in my work as a UX researcher and in my personal life. We all know that social media and messaging apps are a huge part of how we connect today. But how many of you actually think about how to use them effectively when you want to get your message across or engage with others online?"

​Nicole smiled, noticing the girls and their mothers nodding in agreement.
"I've been using direct messaging for years, but my journey with it really started on X. A lot of my work revolves around interacting with people in the UX space—people who are designers, researchers, or developers—and I learned that DMs are a great way to connect and build relationships. For example, I follow a lot of UX professionals who share insights about design trends and research, and sometimes, when I find something particularly interesting, I’ll DM them to ask more questions or give feedback. It's a great way to make those personal connections that can sometimes be harder to form in large groups or public settings."

Nicole paused and looked at the group, ensuring they were following along.
"Now, I also use DMs in a more professional context. I often reach out to companies or people I admire, whether it’s to ask questions, offer suggestions, or—let’s be real—sometimes to complain about a service I’ve used. Direct messaging gives me a space to engage more personally, and it can be a powerful way to express myself. But there’s a balance to it, right? You want to make sure your message is clear, respectful, and effective, especially when you’re addressing something serious."

Nicole’s voice softened as she shifted to a more personal story.
"When I first started out in tech, I had no idea how to navigate these digital spaces. I mean, I’m from Puerto Rico, and the tech world was very different from what I was used to. But through X, I found a community of people who were just like me—curious, ambitious, and eager to learn. And in those DMs, I asked questions that led to meaningful conversations, whether it was about tech tools, research methods, or how to handle a tough situation at work. I learned that the key is to always be clear about what you want to ask or share and to respect other people’s time and energy. For example, if I’m reaching out to someone to ask for help, I try to keep it short, make sure I’m polite, and always thank them for their time."

Nicole looked at the girls in the group. "You can do this too. Whether you’re DMing a company about a product you like, or even reaching out to a friend, the same rules apply. Be polite, be clear, and be respectful. And don’t forget: it’s okay to ask for help, but you also need to make sure you're giving something back, whether it’s by sharing your own thoughts or simply saying ‘thank you.’"
One of the girls, Mia, raised her hand. "So, how do you know if you're being clear when you send a DM?"

Nicole smiled, glad Mia asked the question. "That's a great question, Mia. I think the best way to ensure clarity is to reread your message before you send it. Ask yourself, 'Is this message easy to understand?' If you’re asking for something, like help or information, be direct about it but also kind. I also like to add a greeting and a closing message, like ‘Hey, I hope you're doing well!’ and ‘Thanks so much for your time!’ It shows that you're being thoughtful."

Lola, another girl, spoke up. "What if the person doesn't reply to your DM?"
Nicole nodded, recognizing the frustration. "That can definitely happen. Sometimes people are just busy, or they don’t check their DMs often. If that happens, I don’t take it personally. I just give it some time. If it’s really important, I might send a polite follow-up message after a few days, but never demand a response. It’s all about patience and respect."

One of the mothers, Maria, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke. "This is really useful. I sometimes struggle with using social media to reach out to people for my business, but I didn’t realize how much I could do with DMs. I just assumed it was all about the posts."

Nicole smiled at Maria. "That’s exactly it, Maria. Social media is more than just posting pictures or updates. It’s about creating real, meaningful connections, and direct messaging is one of the most personal ways to do that. Whether you’re trying to network, get customer feedback, or just make a new connection, DMs can help you build a stronger, more personal relationship."

As Nicole wrapped up the discussion, the group felt more equipped to navigate their own digital communication. The lesson on digital literacies wasn’t just about understanding the tools—it was about how to use them effectively and respectfully in their everyday lives.
"Remember," Nicole said with a smile, "the digital world is all about connecting, but always be mindful of how you communicate. Whether it’s through a tweet, a post, or a DM, the way we connect can help us make a real impact."

4. Navigating the Digital World with Purpose

The group of girls and their mothers sat comfortably in the public library's after-school program room, eager to dive into the day's topic: how to use digital literacies, specifically posting content online, with intention and awareness. Nicole Bakula, a UX Researcher and mentor, stood at the front of the room, ready to share her experiences about posting on social media and how it aligns with personal and professional goals.

Among the group were Maya, a 16-year-old who loved expressing herself through photos and memes; Maria, her mother, who was curious about how social media could be used for personal branding; Zoe, a 13-year-old who was just starting to explore the world of blogging; and Ana, Zoe's mother, who worked in education and was interested in how her daughter could use digital platforms to share her writing. The girls and their mothers listened closely as Nicole began.

Nicole Bakula: "So, posting online can be a great way to share your thoughts, ideas, and passions, but it’s also important to remember that everything you post represents you, whether you realize it or not. I’m not someone who posts a lot, but when I do, I try to make sure that it aligns with my personal and professional goals. For example, I might post content related to UX design, or something I think will help others in the tech field. The key is staying true to your values and making sure your posts are thoughtful and respectful."

Zoe, who had been quietly observing, raised her hand: "But how do you know what to post? Like, I see people post a lot of personal stuff, but I’m not sure how much of my life I should share."

Nicole: "Great question, Zoe. The answer really depends on what you’re comfortable sharing. Some people, like Ebony, use social media to share personal moments with friends, but they also post things that are politically or socially relevant. For me, I think it’s important to be cautious. When I post something personal, like a picture with my family, I try to keep it to content that I’m proud of, something that reflects who I am in a positive light."

Ebony, who had been listening intently, joined the conversation: "Yeah, I post a lot on Instagram, but it’s usually related to things happening in the world or just things that make me laugh, like memes. It’s not all serious stuff, but I do try to share content that makes a point or sparks a conversation. I also like posting about my work or travels, especially if it’s something that might inspire others. But I make sure I’m not sharing too much about my personal life—especially with where I work, because you never know who’s watching."

Maria, curious about how to balance professional goals and personal life, asked: "But what should we be cautious about posting? I hear so much about how sharing too much can lead to problems."

Ebony: "Definitely! I mean, anything you post can be out there forever, and it can come back to bite you if you’re not careful. I’ve learned the hard way that it’s important to think before posting. Like, if you work in politics, you don’t want to post something controversial that could affect your reputation or the reputation of the people you work with. It’s also important to protect your personal information—don’t post your address, phone number, or anything that could lead to your identity being stolen. It's all about balance."

Nicole: "And you have to be mindful of the content you consume, too. For example, I love seeing inspiring posts, but I also know it’s easy to get caught up in the ‘like’ game. It can be tempting to post just to get attention, but remember, your worth isn’t defined by how many likes or comments you get. I see a lot of people post only for validation, and that’s something to be cautious of. Don’t let social media define your self-worth."

Jazmine, another member of the group who had been reflecting on the conversation, added her thoughts: "You know, when I first started using social media, I didn’t think about how much my posts could impact my identity. But after seeing a few influencers share their experiences, I realized that I have to be careful about how I present myself online. Just because I wear something or look a certain way in real life doesn’t mean I should post it for everyone to see. There’s a lot of pressure, but you have to stay true to who you are."

Sharlene, who had been quiet but always had a lot of wisdom to share, chimed in: "I think what you post online also says something about your values. I’m very careful about what I share, especially because of my professional background. I try to post things that are educational or culturally relevant, but I avoid getting too personal. I don’t post my family or private moments on social media. I like to share knowledge—whether it’s a blog post, an article, or something that might help someone grow professionally."

Dominique, an older and more experienced figure in the group, smiled and nodded: "I agree with Sharlene. I always encourage others to put themselves out there, whether it’s for job hunting or sharing their expertise. But you have to make sure what you post represents your true self, not just what you think people want to see. I also believe in posting blog entries or other content that’s specific to something I’m working on. It’s a way of showing my work without getting too personal."

Nicole Bakula: "Exactly, Dominique. It’s all about sharing content that aligns with who you are and where you want to go, whether it’s professional or personal. But always keep in mind that what you post is a reflection of you. And once it's out there, it's hard to take back."

The room was quiet for a moment as everyone absorbed the conversation. It was clear that, as digital literacies become more important in navigating online spaces, understanding the power of posting was a crucial part of the discussion.

Jazmine: "So, the key is to make sure your posts align with your goals and values, but also be careful about sharing too much. And, like, think about the future before posting anything, right?"

Nicole: "Exactly, Jazmine. And remember, your online presence can open doors or close them. So, be intentional with your posts, protect your privacy, and always stay true to yourself."

The group left the session with a newfound understanding of how their digital actions—specifically posting—can have a lasting impact, both personally and professionally.

Examples of Digital Literacies and Reflection & Writing Prompts: Review the examples of digital literacies. Reflect on the corresponding prompts and write out your responses. You are welcome to skip any of the prompts that do not apply and jump to the "guiding questions for online search" to learn more about how others demonstrate the digital literacies.
1. Relate

• Reflection: How do you use your digital skills to connect with others, either for personal, academic, or professional reasons? What methods do you use to establish meaningful relationships online (e.g., responding to comments, collaborating on projects)?
• Admiration: Think about someone you admire who excels in building and maintaining digital relationships. What strategies do they use to engage with their audience or network online? How can you apply these strategies to your own interactions?
• Development Goal: How can you improve your ability to relate to others digitally? What steps can you take to ensure that your online interactions are more authentic and meaningful?
• Exploration Question: How do you maintain consistent and productive relationships in digital spaces, such as through email, social media, or collaborative tools? What tools do you use to stay connected with people in your professional network?
• Guiding Online Search Questions:
  • Search for women leaders in tech who excel at building online relationships and community. What methods do they use to engage with others digitally?
  • Look for articles or blogs about the best practices for connecting with people on LinkedIn or professional social media platforms. How do you use these strategies effectively?

2. Researching

• Reflection: How do you conduct research in the digital world? What tools or platforms do you rely on for gathering information, and how do you ensure the information you find is reliable?
• Admiration: Who do you admire for their research skills, particularly in your field of study or work? How do they conduct their research, and what digital tools do they use?
• Development Goal: How can you enhance your researching skills to be more efficient? Are there digital tools or platforms that could help you gather better insights?
• Exploration Question: What strategies do you use to organize and analyze the research you gather online? How do you ensure that the information is well-documented and accessible for future use?
• Guiding Online Search Questions:
  • Search for digital research methodologies used by women in academia or business. How do they use digital tools to conduct research more effectively?
  • Look for blogs or tutorials on research techniques, specifically in your field of interest, that highlight the best digital resources.

3. DM’ing (Direct Messaging)

• Reflection: How do you use direct messaging in professional or personal settings? How do you ensure that your communication through DM is clear, effective, and respectful?
• Admiration: Think of someone you admire for their communication skills through DM. How do they structure their messages, and how do they maintain professionalism in digital communication?
• Development Goal: How can you improve your DM skills, both for professional outreach and casual conversations? What can you do to ensure your messages are well-received and lead to positive interactions?
• Exploration Question: What digital tools or etiquette should you follow when using direct messaging for professional purposes? How do you balance informal and formal communication in DMs?
• Guiding Online Search Questions:
  • Look up tips for professional communication via DM on platforms like LinkedIn or X. How do experts recommend engaging with people in your industry through direct messaging?
  • Search for women in tech who excel at using direct messaging for professional networking. How do they effectively use this tool to connect with others?

4. Posting (Sharing Content Digitally)

• Reflection: When you post content online (e.g., on social media, blogs, or forums), how do you ensure that it aligns with your personal or professional goals? What types of content do you typically share?
• Admiration: Think about someone whose posts you admire. How do they create content that resonates with others? What strategies do they use to ensure their posts reach the right audience?
• Development Goal: How can you enhance your ability to create and share impactful content digitally? What types of posts would you like to improve or explore more in the future?
• Exploration Question: How do you decide what to post digitally? What platforms or tools do you use to share your content, and how do you measure the impact of your posts?
• Guiding Online Search Questions:
  • Search for women in digital marketing or social media who excel at posting engaging content. What strategies do they use to reach and grow their audience?
  • Explore tips from content creators on how to craft and post engaging material. How can you adapt their strategies to your personal or professional brand?

Additional Exploration and Expansion Prompts:

• Possibilities in Your Academic and Career Pursuits:
  How do you think demonstrating these digital literacies can open doors in your academic or professional journey? What impact would mastering these skills have on your ability to engage in networking, communication, and content creation?