ELIE- Activity 10.1

 “Digital Citizenship…Sounds Fancy, But It Actually Make Sense”

     Okay, so at first I read the title “Digital Citizenship” and my brain went, “Great. Another thing to memorize before a quiz.” Honestly, I thought it was just a boring term teachers made up to make us feel guilty for scrolling too much. But after reading the lesson, I realized—it’s not actually that bad. In fact, it kinda explains stuff I’ve been doing (and not doing) online without even knowing there was a word for it.

      So based on my understanding, a digital citizen is basically someone who knows how to behave on the internet without starting chaos. It’s like being a decent human… but with Wi-Fi. It means knowing what’s okay to post, how not to accidentally download 12 viruses, and how to avoid turning the comment section into a boxing ring.

      One key characteristic is respect. For example, when your friend posts a blurry selfie with three filters and the caption “feeling cute,” don’t roast them in the comments—even if you really want to. Just leave a like and move on. Digital citizens know that kindness is free, and so is the “scroll past” option.

      Next is responsibility. This means not trusting every website that promises a free phone. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably wants your credit card. Being responsible also means keeping your passwords stronger than your coffee and not oversharing every emotion on your status (we see you, drama posts).

      Lastly, a digital citizen is smart and informed. Like, if you see a post that says “aliens are enrolling in online classes,” maybe… check another source first? Digital citizens don’t spread fake news—they fact-check like internet detectives in pajamas.

      So yeah, digital citizenship might sound big, but it’s really just about being a good human with Wi-Fi. Not bad for something I thought would just be another “read and forget” lesson.

ELIE- Activity 8.2 (Reflection)

“The Internet of Things… and the Madness of Having Too Many Things”

     Living in the 2020’s feels like waking up in a sci-fi novel every day—except it’s not fiction anymore. From smartwatches tracking my every heartbeat to refrigerators that apparently care more about my milk than I do, the Internet of Things (IoT) is now part of everyday life. As a college student who survived a global pandemic, I’ve seen how helpful technology can be—but also how easy it is to get sucked into this weird “smart everything” rabbit hole. My take? IoT isn’t the enemy. It’s a tool. But like any tool, it can either build or break you depending on how you use it.

     So, there’s this TEDx talk by Benson Hougland, where he says IoT could be bigger than the Internet itself. He paints this picture of a world where your lights adjust automatically, your health is monitored in real-time, and your coffee maker knows exactly when you want your caffeine fix. Sounds awesome, right? Sure, it’s impressive. But also… do I really need my house thinking for me? I can barely remember my own phone password some days. And now you want my toaster to nag me? Nah, I’m good.

     When COVID-19 hit, everything went digital overnight. Classes, meetings, grocery runs—all became “click and go.” IoT devices helped many of us survive isolation—thermal scanners, contact tracing apps, even those fancy automated hand sanitizers you saw everywhere. In those moments, I got why IoT matters. It wasn’t about convenience; it was about survival.

     But post-pandemic? Man, it feels like we’re on the fast track to a world where everything has to be smart. Smart lights, smart doors, smart toilets (yes, those exist). And honestly, some of it just screams lazy. Like, seriously, am I supposed to brag that my coffee machine talks to my phone? I’d rather learn to make a decent cup myself than let an app do it. Where’s the fun in that? Where’s the challenge? Sometimes you gotta mess up your coffee to appreciate a good one.

     Effort matters. As a student, learning isn’t about just downloading answers. It’s about struggling, failing, and figuring things out. Life’s the same. If everything’s automated, we lose the chance to grow. It’s okay to do things the hard way. That’s how we stay human. And no, I’m not about to give up burning my tongue on hot coffee anytime soon just to save a few seconds.

     That’s why I’m all for IoT—but with limits. I use tech where it actually helps—tracking my sleep, keeping my schedule on point, getting those class notifications without scrambling. But I still write notes by hand. I still cook without yelling at Alexa. And I definitely prefer face-to-face talks over chat bubbles. IoT should support us, not babysit us.

     Oh, and privacy? Big deal. The more devices we connect, the more data we hand out. During the pandemic, giving up privacy for safety made sense. But now, we have to ask: who owns our info? Who’s cashing in? These aren’t just tech questions—they’re life questions. Technology shouldn’t be some sneaky contract you sign without reading.

     At the end of the day, IoT isn’t some sci-fi villain ready to take over the world. It has huge potential—helping with healthcare, disaster response, saving the environment. But it’s up to us to decide where the line is. I want a smart world, but not one where I become a couch potato ruled by my smart fridge.

    So yeah, bring on the smart devices. But I’m keeping my effort, my curiosity, and my right to rant about the three different apps I have to use just to turn on the lights in my own house. That’s what keeps me smarter than the machines around me—and that’s a choice I’m sticking to.

ELIE-Activity 8.1 (Written Report)

Issues and Challenges of the Internet of Things (IoT): A Written Report

I. Summary

     The Internet of Things (IoT) presents tremendous potential in contributing to a smarter and more sustainable future. However, as outlined in the source article, its rapid global expansion introduces several serious concerns. These include environmental degradation due to e-waste, increased energy consumption, security vulnerabilities, network limitations, lack of standardization, challenges in data management, and significant social and economic implications. To ensure the responsible implementation of IoT technologies, these challenges must be addressed through coordinated policy reforms, innovative design, and ethical data governance.

II. Introduction

     The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the system of interconnected devices embedded with sensors and technologies that collect, transmit, and exchange data. It enables smarter solutions in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, energy, and urban planning. While IoT offers efficiency, convenience, and innovation, it also introduces a host of critical issues. According to the article, several of these challenges must be acknowledged and resolved to prevent long-term harm and to ensure that IoT technologies serve the public good. This report outlines and expands on the key issues raised in the article, presenting solutions where possible.

III. Main Point I: Environmental and Resource Concerns

     One of the most urgent challenges of IoT adoption lies in its environmental impact. As the demand for IoT devices grows, so too does the need for raw materials—particularly rare earth metals that are crucial for electronic components. This leads to increased resource depletion. At the same time, the global recycling rate for electronic waste (e-waste) remains low, at only around 20%, which contributes to worsening environmental pollution.

     To address this, the article recommends several solutions. First, it emphasizes the need for improved global recycling infrastructure along with strengthened legislation regarding e-waste disposal. Second, manufacturers must prioritize the use of sustainable materials and design devices that are easier to disassemble, reuse, or recycle. Lastly, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) should be enforced, holding companies accountable for the entire lifecycle of their products—from production to end-of-life disposal.

IV. Main Point II: Energy, Security, and Infrastructure Challenges

Energy Consumption and Carbon Footprint

     Another major concern discussed in the article is the energy-intensive nature of both the production and operation of billions of IoT devices. This results in a significant carbon footprint and raises questions about long-term environmental sustainability. The article suggests addressing this challenge through the development of low-power hardware and software, greater integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, and the adoption of energy-harvesting techniques that utilize ambient sources like light, vibration, or heat.

Security and Privacy Concerns

     Due to the interconnected nature of IoT systems, security vulnerabilities are another critical challenge. Software bugs, weak network protections, and insufficient security tools leave devices open to exploitation. Furthermore, the vast amount of data collected by these devices raises serious privacy concerns. According to the article, this can be mitigated through the use of strong encryption, robust security protocols, and the design of devices with secure authentication methods. Additionally, clear data privacy regulations and ethical guidelines are necessary to protect user data and ensure transparency in data handling.

Network Infrastructure Limitations

      The functionality of IoT devices is heavily dependent on reliable network infrastructure. However, in many regions—especially those with limited access to high-speed internet—existing wireless networks such as Wi-Fi are inadequate in terms of coverage and speed. To resolve this, the article suggests investing in advanced wireless technologies, including Low-Power Wide Area Networks (LPWANs) like LoRaWAN and NB-IoT. Moreover, hybrid network architectures that combine multiple technologies can be used to expand coverage and improve capacity.

V. Main Point III: Standardization, Data, and Socio-Economic Impact

Interoperability and Standardization

     Currently, a lack of standardization and interoperability between different IoT platforms and devices hinders seamless communication and widespread adoption. As noted in the article, this can be addressed through the development of common communication protocols, unified data formats, and open-source frameworks that encourage device compatibility and collaboration across industries.

Data Management and Analysis

     IoT generates massive volumes of data, which presents challenges related to storage, processing, and meaningful analysis. The article highlights the importance of developing advanced analytics techniques to manage and interpret this data effectively. Additionally, using edge computing and fog computing—where data is processed closer to its source—can reduce bandwidth use and improve responsiveness. Cloud-based platforms are also essential, as they offer scalable and cost-effective solutions for long-term data storage and processing.

Social and Economic Impact

     Finally, the article draws attention to the potential social and economic implications of IoT. Automation powered by IoT may lead to job displacement, particularly in industries that rely heavily on manual labor. There is also concern over reduced social interaction due to increased digital mediation. To mitigate these effects, the article proposes careful job transition planning, including retraining programs and support for affected workers. Moreover, policies should be designed to ensure equitable access to IoT benefits so that vulnerable communities are not left behind in the digital transformation.

VI. Conclusion and Recommendations

     In conclusion, while the Internet of Things offers significant benefits, its responsible implementation requires careful planning and management. The issues of resource depletion, e-waste, energy use, security risks, infrastructure limitations, data overload, and social inequality are real and growing. To ensure a successful future for IoT, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. This includes investing in technological innovation, enforcing policy changes, adhering to ethical standards, and promoting international collaboration. Only through such efforts can we fully harness the transformative power of IoT while minimizing its risks.

VII. Sources

Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7368922/

ELIE- Activity 7.2

“Safe Add to Cart: How I Avoid E-Commerce Disasters”

     Can’t we just be FOR REAL—E-commerce is both a blessing and a trap. It’s the friend that helps you buy useful things while also whispering, “Buy this cat-shaped lamp you don’t need.” I love online shopping, but I’ve also learned (the hard way) that behind every cute item is the potential for chaos. After reading our Lesson 7 module, I realized there’s an actual science to avoiding the drama.

     To start, product risk is my mortal enemy. You ever buy something that looks amazing in photos but shows up looking like it came from a parallel universe? Yeah. That’s why I’ve become a review detective. I don’t just look at ratings—I investigate like I’m exposing a scandal. I zoom in on blurry customer-uploaded pictures like I’m in CSI: Shopee Edition.

     Then there’s privacy risk, which I take more seriously than my crush on midnight snacks. I don’t share my personal info online because I believe in digital boundaries. The only people who need to know my address are the delivery guy and my dog (and maybe my future self when I forget where I live). That’s why I still use Cash on Delivery like it’s my emotional support payment method. I’d rather hand over cash than my card number. Why? Because if I ever get scammed, at least I still have my dignity. And my money.

     Moving on to temporal risk—a.k.a. the drama of waiting. I once waited three weeks for a “fast delivery” item that arrived slower than my motivation on a Monday. So now I always check the shop’s shipping performance. If reviews say, “Fast delivery! Arrived in 2 days,” I’m sold. But if it says, “Still waiting after 2 weeks. Send help,” I run faster than my internet during a storm.

      And honestly, you know that feeling when you order something you’re really excited about—like a cute phone case with a built-in mirror (because, hello, vanity)—but the order status just stays stuck on “Pending” for three whole days? THREE. DAYS. It feels like being left hanging by an ex you never even dated. No update, no email, no movement. Delivery status? “Preparing to ship.” Since when?? Last week? I swear, I’ve developed trust issues with the phrase “Estimated Delivery: 3–5 days,” because it always sounds like a lie. Meanwhile, I’m at the window, by the gate, checking app notifications like I’m waiting for the love of my life to return from war. And don’t even get me started on those sellers who vanish after checkout. Like, hello? Where are you, Shopee seller123? I left my hopes and dreams with that order! And that broken tracking number? It’s giving ghosted. So yes, the biggest lesson? Online shopping will test your patience, your Wi-Fi, and your emotional stability. But hey, at least I got a ₱50 voucher. Worth it? Debatable.

     Financial risk is the next villain in this story. Nothing haunts you like a “no refund” policy after receiving an item that looks like it survived a typhoon. That’s why I don’t go for sketchy sellers, even if their price is a steal. If the grammar on their product description is suspicious and the return policy says “no returns, no complaints,” I treat it like a red flag on a dating app—exit immediately.

      I also take my time comparing listings. Sometimes the same item has three wildly different prices across platforms. I dig deep, compare deals, check shipping, and inspect whether freebies are included. E-commerce is war. You don’t enter the battlefield without doing recon.

     At the end of the day, what keeps me grounded is the awareness that e-commerce is convenient—but risky. Based on our module, I’ve learned that risks like faulty products, data misuse, delivery delays, and unclear policies are part of the territory. But the smarter you shop, the safer the experience becomes.

     So before I hit “Buy Now,” I pause. I investigate. I double-check. Because I’d rather spend five extra minutes verifying than spend five days regretting. And if I still get played by a mysterious shop that shipped me a questionable power bank from a warehouse in the middle of nowhere? I laugh, I cry, I leave a passive-aggressive review… and maybe still add something else to cart.

ELIE- Activity 7.1

“Bought It With My Eyes, Paid It With My Trust Issues”

     Online shopping is basically my toxic trait—but make it ✨efficient✨. I scroll through TikTok Shop, SHEIN, and Shopee more than I check my email. I don’t even plan to buy anything sometimes… but then a cute top shows up, or a multifunctional skincare organizer, or even a random shoe rack shaped like a cat. One minute I’m just “browsing,” the next minute I’ve added five items to cart like I’m some minimalist who’s collecting maximum chaos. But among all the randomness, there was one purchase that stood out: the time I bought a moon lamp as a Christmas gift for my best friends.

     I got it from Shopee, because it’s my go-to when I’m being a sentimental shopaholic on a budget. The moon lamp was aesthetic, affordable, and highly rated. I saw it and thought, “Yup, this is it. This is the personality gift.” It had excellent customer reviews and those magical product photos that scream add to cart now or cry later. So I did what had to be done—I checked out.

     When it came to payment, I didn’t even think twice. Cash on Delivery (COD) is my forever ride-or-die. I’ve never tried online payments, and honestly, I don’t trust them. Maybe one day I’ll evolve, but for now, the thought of putting my card info online gives me instant anxiety. I’m a very private person—I don’t even share much on social media. I use the internet strictly for school, memes, and the occasional deep dive into useless but fascinating rabbit holes. Sharing financial information? That’s a big no from me. COD just makes me feel safer and more in control of the situation, like I’m holding onto the last piece of sanity in a digital world full of potential hackers and identity theft drama.

    What really adds spice to my shopping habits, though, are those chaotic live selling events. I swear, whenever I see a seller yelling “Pa-mine po!” while waving discount vouchers and free shipping offers, I am spiritually weak. I cannot resist. I live for those moments when your total magically drops because you stacked vouchers like a pro. It’s a kind of thrill that only fellow budget warriors will understand. It’s like doing extreme couponing, but digital and more impulsive. The urgency, the countdowns, the flashing SALE signs—it’s like Hunger Games, but with skincare and crop tops.

     Now, when it comes to what actually affects my buying decisions, it’s a combination of several things all happening at once inside my very overwhelmed brain. First, if something’s catchy to the eye, I’m already 60% convinced. If it looks cute and aesthetic, my willpower just fades. Then, I scroll through customer reviews because I need validation from total strangers to feel okay about spending money. The item has to be useful, too—I’m not here to hoard things that’ll end up in a drawer of shame. Affordability matters a lot, of course. I want something nice without feeling like I have to skip meals. And if the seller has a high rating and fast shipping? Consider it done. I’m sold. Lastly, the fact that COD is an option just brings me peace of mind. It’s my version of insurance—no commitment until the product is literally in my hands.

     The moon lamp finally arrived, and I’m happy to report that it lived up to my expectations. It looked exactly like the pictures, worked perfectly, and my best friends absolutely loved it. For once, everything went smoothly. No delays, no product defects, no scammy surprises. It was one of those rare online shopping victories that remind you maybe e-commerce isn’t entirely out to get you. It helped ease my usual paranoia about product risk and late delivery nightmares, even just for a moment. Still, I always mentally prepare myself for the worst until the item is physically in my room.

     In conclusion, my experience with online shopping—especially this one—was a mix of joy, panic, and small triumphs. I love how convenient it is, and the way it opens doors to endless choices, but I’ll never let my guard down. I buy smart, pay with caution, and never give out more information than necessary. But the moment I see a live seller shouting “Buy now, free shipping!” while holding a cute lamp under ring light lighting—I’m there. Cart loaded. Trust issues aside, I’ll probably do it all again next weekend.

ELIE-Activity 6.1

“From Zero to Submit: A Multimedia Miracle (Fueled by Panic)”

    Let me be honest right off the bat—I didn’t wake up one day thinking, “Wow, I’m going to be part of a multimedia project today!” Nope. It was more like, “Group project na naman? Saan na naman ako kukuha ng app pang-edit?!” And to make it worse, half the time, we didn’t even start on time. Cramming? Oh, that wasn’t just part of the process—it was the process.

     Back in high school, we had multimedia projects for Creative Technology and Entrepreneurship. Whether it was filming, poster-making, or doing some ad for a fake business, it always started with an idea… and then weeks of doing nothing… until boom—suddenly it’s due tomorrow. Somehow, we always managed to pull it off, but not without chaos and sleep deprivation.

     For the filming and advertising parts, we used whatever was available: phones, laptops, and wireless microphones if someone was lucky enough to own one. We edited using CapCut, VN, and FilmoraGo on our phones, and sometimes Shotcut or Adobe Premiere Pro if the laptop was feeling generous and didn’t lag or crash. More than once, I lost my progress because I forgot to save. Pain.

     When it came to posters or menus for our pretend food stalls, we used ibisPaint to design from scratch. And when our minds were blank—because, again, we started too late—we rushed to Pinterest for inspiration. It’s basically our unofficial groupmate. Zero contribution sa group chat pero solid sa ideas.

     Most of the stuff we used came from us—personal gadgets or borrowed from someone in class who had better tools. We downloaded the apps ourselves, and most of them were free. If not, we relied on free trials and prayed they wouldn’t expire the night before the deadline. And yes, there were moments we had to uninstall TikTok just to make space for video editing apps. Sacrifices were made.

     Now let’s talk about using other people’s work. Guilty, but responsibly guilty. We got music, sound effects, and background clips from the internet, but we were careful. We used royalty-free music from YouTube’s audio library, Pixabay, and Bensound, and we only used images labeled as safe for educational or personal use. When required, we gave credits—usually in the last slide or video frame while silently hoping the teacher would notice.

     Looking back, I realize that what we were doing was actual multimedia work—combining text, video, audio, and graphics. It wasn’t perfect, but it was real. And through all the stress, confusion, and cramming at midnight while the rest of the group suddenly “fell asleep,” I learned something. I learned how to work with what I had, how to make things look decent under pressure, and how to stay calm when everything starts going wrong 3 hours before submission.

     And maybe, just maybe, I enjoyed it—right after the breakdowns. So no, our projects didn’t look like Hollywood-level films or Canva pro posters, but they were made with effort, panic, and a lot of last-minute genius.

      That’s how I survived multimedia in high school. And honestly? I’d do it again. But this time, maybe with a little less cramming. Maybe.