Report: Understanding the Political and Digital Self

Introduction (3 minutes)

Welcome everyone! Today, we will explore two essential aspects of identity: the Political Self, which is
how our national identity shapes us, and the Digital Self, which reflects who we are online.
Understanding these can help us navigate both our roles in society and the digital world.

Part 1: The Political Self (12 minutes)

Defining the Political Self

The Political Self represents how external factors, like our country's history and culture, shape our
personal identity. It is a blend of our internal beliefs and external societal influences.

Filipino Identity

Filipino identity has evolved through centuries of colonization by Spain, the U.S., and Japan. Although we
gained independence, influences from these periods remain visible today.

 Example: Many Filipinos celebrate fiestas, a tradition rooted in Spanish colonization, showing
how our culture blends the past with the present.

Filipino Values and Traits

1. Hospitality: Filipinos warmly welcome guests, often offering food or a place to stay.

o Example: A tourist visiting the Philippines might be greeted with a feast and a smile.

2. Respect for Elders: Using gestures like “mano po” shows reverence.

o Example: A student greets their grandparents by kissing their hands.

3. Bayanihan (Community Spirit): Filipinos work together to help each other.

o Example: Neighbors help move a house on stilts in rural areas.

4. Self-Sacrifice: Seen in the dedication of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who endure
separation from families to support them financially.

Challenges to Identity

 Colonial Mentality: Favoring foreign over local products.

o Example: Many Filipinos prefer imported goods like designer clothes instead of local
brands.

 Crab Mentality: Bringing others down to get ahead, which harms unity.

Reflection

Ask students: How can you promote Filipino values in your daily life?
Part 2: The Digital Self (12 minutes)

Defining the Digital Self

The Digital Self is how we present ourselves online, through profiles, posts, and interactions. Sometimes,
it differs significantly from our real-world identity.

Online vs. Real Identity

 Online identity often highlights the idealized version of oneself.

o Example: Someone might post photos of luxurious vacations, but in real life, they are
struggling financially.

Impact of the Internet

1. Increased Connectivity: Over half the world now uses the Internet, with most accessing it via
mobile phones.

o Example: Students use social media apps like TikTok and Facebook to stay in touch.

2. Gender and Sexuality Online: The digital world allows for freer expression of identity but also
requires critical thinking to avoid stereotypes.

Smart Sharing Guidelines

1. Think before you post: Is it necessary? Will it benefit others?

2. Protect your information: Guard passwords and limit what you share.

3. Be respectful: Avoid posting harmful or mean content.

Reflection

Discuss: Have you ever posted something online that you later regretted? What did you learn from it?

Conclusion and Key Takeaways (3 minutes)

1. The Political Self helps us understand our heritage and values.

2. The Digital Self encourages responsible behavior online.

3. Both selves teach us to balance tradition and technology to form our identity.

Encourage students to reflect on their actions and how they represent themselves in both their
community and online.

Interactive Q&A Session (5 minutes)

 How do you maintain authenticity online?

This report integrates relatable examples and invites students to think critically about their identities,
making it both engaging and educational. Let me know if you need additional activities or slides!

4o

You said:

can you suggest an activity that can I do every after the lesson?

ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT

Here’s a suggestion for a reflective and engaging activity you can do after each lesson to help students
internalize what they’ve learned:

Activity: "Mirror, Mirror on the Wall"

Objective:
Encourage students to reflect on their personal identity and behavior, whether in their community
(Political Self) or online (Digital Self).

Duration:
10–15 minutes

Steps:

1. Reflection Prompt (5 minutes):

o For the Political Self:

 What Filipino value or trait do you strongly relate to?

 How can you contribute to strengthening Filipino culture in your community?

o For the Digital Self:

 What part of your online behavior truly reflects your real self?

 How can you use social media responsibly to inspire others?

2. Sharing Circle (5–7 minutes):

o Divide the class into small groups.

o Let each student share one insight or personal commitment based on their reflections.
 o Example: "I realized I can be more proud of our local culture by promoting Filipino-made
products online."

3. Class Discussion (3 minutes):

o Bring the class together to discuss key takeaways.

o Highlight any inspiring commitments shared by the students.

Alternative Variation: Creative Outputs

If time allows, let students express their reflections through drawings, short poems, or digital posters.
For example:

 For the Political Self: Create a poster promoting a Filipino value.

 For the Digital Self: Design an infographic about smart online habits.

This activity not only fosters deeper understanding but also encourages personal accountability and
creativity!