This week, I explored a mix of topics that felt surprisingly connected to my day-to-day life as a computer science student and soon-to-be full-time work-from-home intern. Between reading about critical thinking, diving into Maha Bali’s work on equity in digital spaces, and revisiting the ergonomics resources (which hit home given my leg injury experience during my previous co-op), I realized how much these areas shape our digital experiences — often without us noticing. It’s interesting how small choices, like how we set up our workspace or engage with online communities, can really impact our well-being and growth.

Critical thinking, especially in digital spaces, feels more important than ever. With generative AI tools like ChatGPT becoming common in education, it’s crucial we learn to question, verify, and reflect on the content we interact with. This ties back to our earlier discussions on AI and academic integrity, reminding me of the balance between using AI as a helpful assistant and still applying human judgment. Whether it’s navigating through biased algorithms or spotting misinformation online, sharpening our critical thinking keeps us grounded in a sea of endless information.

Equity in digital spaces, as highlighted by Maha Bali, really made me think about my role at UVicAI. We aim to make AI tools and knowledge accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. Maha’s emphasis on co-creating knowledge and valuing diverse voices aligns with our club’s efforts to build an inclusive community. As someone from a non-traditional background, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is to have learning spaces that empower every individual, not just those with prior privilege or access.

Ergonomics was a practical takeaway, especially as I gear up for my new co-op role this summer. After reading UVic’s ergonomics tips, I felt reassured about my decision to invest in a sturdy desk setup, ergonomic chair, and adjustable lighting. The reminders about posture, screen height, and micro-breaks were simple yet essential — I’ve bookmarked the UVic Office Stretches guide to keep handy! For anyone like me who’s heading into months of remote work, these small adjustments could really prevent strain and burnout.