Digital Identity and Digital Badges

Digital profile

Your digital profile or digital identity relates to your online profile and activities. As our world becomes more networked, almost all of our online activities leave a ‘digital footprint’ that, eventually, becomes our digital profile. 

If you spend a lot of time on social media platforms such as Instagram or TikTok, or if you are thinking about starting to use these platforms, it might be worth reflecting on your online identity and taking steps to ‘curate’ it with care. For an excellent resource that can help you to take more control of your digital identity, see this All Aboard tutorial on digital identity.

This resource also has some useful tips for enhancing your professional profile through networking sites such as LinkedIn, or through e-portfolios, which you can use to showcase your achievements and learning for professional as well as educational purposes.

University Skills Passport (USP)

University of Galway has developed a University Skills Passport that students will be able to use to demonstrate the achievement of key skills. Digital badges will certify skills development through curricular and co- and extra-curricular engagement.

Digital badges are 'mini-certificates' in digital format that you can earn for completing certain tasks or activities. For example, you can earn a digital badge for successfully completing the All Aboard lesson mentioned above, or for engaging with CÉIM peer learning in first year.

You can include badges on your CV, your personal profiles, or in an e-portfolio such as the USP. They tell others (including prospective employers) about your skills and achievements. 

Digital Security

Digital security is a priority at University of Galway. Like all organisations, our systems and people face increasing digital threats, including cyberattacks, scams, fraud, hacking, and information theft. Check out our IT security resources and protect yourself and others from cybercrime.