We may not realize how much of our choices is tied to our identity until we are asked to identify ourselves. The answers we give depends on the audience we are addressing. We are likely to present ourselves differently in a social gathering as opposed to a formal/professional environment. There isn’t anything wrong with either, it’s just that the notion of identity is quite expansive.

That said, technology has added another level of mediation to it. For instance, consider an online environment which comes with its own nuances. if a person introduces himself or herself in a face to face conversation, I can fill in the rest of the gaps visually. Though the introduction is verbal, there are other giveaways like gestures, height, physical features, voice and so on that contextualize the identity. In an online or other technologically mediated setting however, much more is open to interpretation.

Our identities are sharpened by our upbringing, life experiences, culture, beliefs and so on. It is birthed by an intelligent mix of nature and nurture. For that reason it is a concept that will continue to evolve as we go through life. A strong sense of identity in learning develops organically as we allow ourselves the freedom to pursue and engage our intellectual curiosities in a manner that is non-threatening.