Posts

The algorithmic gaze and its impact on our sense of human identity

Jo Sutherst is a PhD student in the College of Humanities, based in Exeter.  Her research is self-funded and is investigating the effects of algorithms and the selfie on identity.  Her supervisors are Professor Gabriella Giannachi and Professor David Houston Jones.

My Research

Through my research I am hoping to determine the impact of our engagement with the selfie and the algorithmic filters that can be used to edit and ‘perfect’ our self-image. The selfie can be understood as a product of recent advancements in digital image-making and online image sharing platforms. It is a socially accepted global phenomenon that serves as a means of self-representation.

I will use practice elements involving lots of selfies of me (eek!), which I will then use to research the role of the process of producing, editing and sharing selfies as a method for constructing and communicating identity in a contemporary digital world. The images will be shared on social media so it would be great to have you along for the journey. (more…)

Jo-Anne Sutherst    July 8th, 2020    Distance Learning, Health and wellbeing, Higher Education, Postgraduate, Studying

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How to study productively and efficiently at home

Hi, my name is Isla and I am currently studying for my BA English degree at Exeter University. With the current pandemic and studies disrupted, tackling that pile of coursework you’d rather avoid, combined with health concerns and a distracting home environment is daunting. It’s easy to say ‘I just study better in the library’ but there are methods and tools out there to help you create the best study space you can at home.

Managing my studies around a busy timetable (I am part of three society committees, a subject representative and have a job alongside my studies) has encouraged me to find any resources I can to help with working at home productively and efficiently. I’m going to share with you some of the tools and study methods I use to keep up with work and still have time for Netflix and a social life (well more of a Zoom/Facetime life now). (more…)

Isla Zena Lamparelli    June 9th, 2020    Distance Learning, Exams and Assessment, Health and wellbeing, Lifestyle, Preparing for University, Studying, Undergraduate

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Balancing work and study with CFS/M.E.

When I began my Master’s degree in September 2014, I never imagined how much my life would change between then and now. I managed, more or less, to complete half of the programme’s taught credits in the first year, but then stumbled through two abortive attempts at beginning my second year, and am only just returning to study now.

In late September 2016 I was diagnosed with CFS/ME (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis). After what seemed an endless barrage of blood tests and other various proddings/pokings, I was formally diagnosed and I began to learn about how to live with the condition.

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Jenny Marie    October 12th, 2017    Distance Learning, Postgraduate, Studying

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