Having had such little exposure to this type of learning or subject matter, I initially thought I would struggle and may (rather ashamedly) overlook this module. This was paired with scepticism about the MOOC and the belief that blogs were a rather outdated medium. In actual fact, my experience was quite the opposite. I found the subject matter refreshing, challenging, and stimulating, and having a variety of learning styles was enriching. I have since started to blog externally, often finding myself reading the blogs of others, and am currently participating in another MOOC specialised for data science and fully expect to participate in many more in the future. Genuinely, I have never been so happy about a module proving me wrong!
As the first business module I have ever taken, I feel as though this has given me a sturdy fundamental knowledge towards the future of businesses, as well as teaching me how to learn independently whilst navigating a sea of fake news. Within my Data Science Master’s most of my time is spent learning foundational skills rather than looking at the breadth of applications and how they can be applied. This module unexpectedly taught me a large amount regarding the areas in business this science is utilised, particularly in the discussions regarding the smart cities and SMAC technologies (as shown below). I found this course acted as the bridge connecting elements of my master’s and the real world.
My contribution to the SMAC discussion 
Evidence of Smart City technologies in Oxford
Interestingly, for both the MOOC and the module discussions I would find myself prematurely thinking there was nothing of value I could add, possibly due to them being a bit out of my comfort zone initially. It was only after I pushed and challenged myself to contribute that interesting and stimulating opinions came to me. The incentive to do well became a second thought and contributing and learning from these discussions became my priority. This mentality is something I will certainly take forwards with my learning and clearly will be of great help in the workplace.
Finally, a highlight of this module. Despite being digital, I loved that this is the module I felt most connected with other students. Being digital seemed to break down subconscious social barriers, allowing for rich discussions with students from all backgrounds. Integrating this approach in wider university academia can only be beneficial.
This video expands on some of the above points, as well as presenting evidence of my learning in both the MOOC and blog comments:
Comment Links:
- https://henrycornishdigitalmodels.business.blog/2020/02/12/how-has-technology-changed-jobs-and-how-will-it-change-them-in-the-future-the-farmer/
- https://thedigitalfoodie.food.blog/2020/02/12/restaurant-automation-where-are-we-now-and-how-will-the-future-look-like/
- https://xzexeter431.design.blog/2020/03/04/valve/
- https://kimmy538.wordpress.com/2020/03/06/how-enormous-influence-online-medical-consultation-has/
References:
Adobe. (n.d.). Smart city and internet of things, wireless communication network. Adobe Stock. Retrieved 9 April 2020, from https://stock.adobe.com/uk/images/smart-city-and-internet-of-things-wireless-communication-network-abstract-image-visual-iot-internet-of-things-5g-network-digital-hologram/285288945
BEMM129: Digital Business Models 