UVic EDCI 338 Social Media & Personalized Learning

Tag: PLN

Network Society & PLN

August 16, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Hello everyone,

I’m thrilled to share my final blog post for EDCI 338, and this week, I’ll be diving into the captivating concept of the “network society” and its intriguing alignment with my very own Personal Learning Network (PLN). Furthermore, I’ll be delving into the invaluable role my PLN is set to play in my professional development post-course, as well as its potential to usher in a wave of new and exciting professional opportunities.

The relentless pace at which information and communication technology (ICT) is advancing has undeniably ushered in the age of the network society. This modern landscape necessitates a shift from the conventional models we were accustomed to, urging us to embrace a more intricate understanding of the intricate interplay between economics, culture, and technology. A PLN, in its essence, is a manifestation of these very principles—a dynamic web of connections and interactions that extends its influence far beyond the confines of traditional learning.

As we’ve explored in our previous discussions, the significance of our PLN for professional development cannot be overstated. However, within the context of the network society, this significance takes on an even greater hue. The accessibility of personal computers and the expansive repository of knowledge available online underscore the imperative of capitalizing on this tremendous opportunity. Notably, Manuel Castells introduced the concept of mass self-communication back in 2007, and the contemporary landscape of interactive digital platforms eloquently echoes this notion. Our digital identities, the currency of the modern virtual realm, empower us to connect, communicate, and share with individuals and communities worldwide, breathing life into the essence of our PLN.

Drawing from my own experiences, I am deeply convinced that digital media will be the cornerstone of my future professional pursuits. Platforms like LinkedIn have transcended mere networking tools; they have become veritable conduits for global job opportunities. This transformative reach doesn’t just benefit job seekers; it empowers employers to source the perfect talent from every corner of the world. In a world defined by virtual connections, building and curating my PLN online has opened avenues to engage with organizations, professionals, and thought leaders across the globe, aligning beautifully with Van Dijk’s categories of motivation, physical presence, skills, and usage as delineated in 2006.

Importantly, the depth of our engagement with the digital realm corresponds directly to the opportunities it unfurls before us. Our internet literacy is intrinsically linked to the potency of our PLN in the Information Society/Knowledge Society paradigm. This evolution mirrors the changing landscape of the “network” concept itself, which has evolved far beyond its conventional moorings of community-based connections. Today, networks encompass an intricately woven tapestry of nodes, interconnected across dimensions that span cultural and social landscapes.

In summation, the network society is a canvas upon which our PLN paints a portrait of unparalleled significance. Through the conduits of digital tools, we can seize upon global opportunities while remaining grounded in our local realities. As we traverse our professional journeys, our PLN stands as an indomitable asset—a catalyst for growth, connection, and meaningful impact.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude for accompanying me on this journey through EDCI 338. As we navigate the expanses of our network society, I eagerly anticipate our continued connections and collaborations.

With warm regards,

Embracing Inclusion: The Power of Social Media in Building a Diverse PLN

July 26, 2023 / / 0 Comments

We are not new to Inclusion, but what exactly is it? It is a core value that should be embraced in every professional setting. My thinking about inclusion and my Personal Learning Network (PLN) has evolved significantly. In this blog post, I will reflect on the role of social media in establishing inclusive and diverse messaging and themes within a professional context.

The Power of Social Media in Communication

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, enabling us to reach a broader and more diverse audience. It facilitates instant interactions, fosters global connections, and encourages dialogue between people from various backgrounds. In a professional setting, leveraging social media for communication can be a powerful tool to spread messages that promote inclusivity and diversity.

Challenges in Social Media Communications

However, along with its advantages, social media poses challenges to communication. The speed and ease of sharing information can sometimes lead to impulsive and poorly thought-out messaging. This can inadvertently perpetuate biases or exclude certain groups. As content creators, we must be mindful of these challenges and strive to ensure that our messages are inclusive, respectful, and sensitive to diverse perspectives.

Fostering Inclusivity Through Social Media

Inclusivity on social media can be achieved by actively seeking diverse voices, experiences, and opinions. Engaging with individuals from different cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds allows for a more comprehensive understanding of issues and challenges faced by various communities.

Amplifying the Views of Others

A diverse PLN is invaluable in amplifying the views of others. By sharing content from a variety of perspectives, we encourage meaningful conversations and broaden our audience’s horizons. As content curators, we have a responsibility to give visibility to marginalized voices and help uplift them within the professional sphere.

Understanding Employer Social Media Communication Expectations

In the context of employment, having a public and engaging PLN demands an understanding of employer policies regarding social media usage. Many companies have guidelines in place to protect their brand image and reputation. While this is essential, it should not stifle employees’ ability to promote diversity and inclusion.

Benefits of a Diverse and Inclusive PLN

A diverse and inclusive PLN on social media holds numerous benefits:

  1. Broader Perspectives: Engaging with a diverse audience exposes us to a wide range of perspectives, enabling us to approach problems with fresh insights.
  2. Creativity and Innovation: Inclusive environments foster creativity and innovation as people from different backgrounds bring unique ideas and solutions to the table.
  3. Improved Decision Making: When decisions are made with input from a diverse group, they tend to be more well-rounded and considerate of various viewpoints.
  4. Community Influence: An inclusive PLN can significantly impact the community by advocating for positive change, inspiring others, and promoting awareness on vital issues.

To sum up, Inclusion in a professional setting is essential for growth, innovation, and the well-being of employees and the broader community. Social media plays a crucial role in establishing messaging and themes that are inclusive and diverse. By actively curating a PLN that encompasses a variety of voices and experiences, we can create a positive impact on the world around us. Let us embrace the power of social media responsibly and use it as a force for good, fostering inclusivity and promoting diversity in every sphere of our lives.

Being a student with PLN

July 21, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Hello!

This week, I will share some of my opinions regard to something we are all familiar with. These days, there are only a few of us who don’t have social media accounts, we use social networks both as a tool to find what we are looking for and as a place where we interact with others through the things we choose to share that belong to our identity which eventually become a social identity.

Students are one of the greater audiences among other users who are more active on digital platforms. While there are more digital platforms for social use there are less and specific digital platforms for institutional use. LinkedIn is one of the professional networks that students use frequently to make meaningful connections that will help them to land a job that aligns with their work field. I believe like myself, we students use other digital platforms for personal purposes for a professional purpose. Instagram, one of the well know social media platforms can be used to gather information about the professionalism we are interested in in a way of reaching out to organizations and people in the organizations, especially these days we have greater access to digital identity that reveals values, beliefs, interest and more information.

Expanding one’s professional learning network is essential for personal and career growth. Furthermore, when it comes to expanding professional learning network (PLN), students could consider

  1. Joining Professional Associations
  2. Attending Conferences and Workshops
  3. Networking Events
  4. Online Networking
  5. Informational Interviews
  6. Mentorship Programs
  7. Online Forums and Communities
  8. Volunteering
  9. Guest Lectures and Seminars
  10. Cross-Disciplinary Connections
  11. Maintain Relationships
  12. Work on Personal Branding
  13. Alumni Networks
  14. Collaborate on Projects

These ways can be personalized based on the strengths and weaknesses of students and focus on a few of them they find most beneficial without being stuck with only one way to expand PLN.

However, some limitations could prevent PLN while there could be other promotions to enhance PLN. Some of the limitations could be hesitation to share any information, on that reveals the digital identity of the user that is valuable for others to get to know who they are viewing. This hesitation could be linked to a level of trust that is derived from a lack of knowledge of privacy and security in social networks. On the other hand, confidence in a social network can boost one’s self-esteem which can lead to a share of quality information that will be believed to be secure and available only who are interested in this would result in a positive change. More, legal compliance and credibility can provide a secure environment for students when interacting with others for the sake of professional success.

Students like me can consider some aspects of professional social networking mentioned above and come up with great ideas to build a healthy environment for personal growth. In this manner, I would personally improve my knowledge about PLN and get active in social networking events. This could change in the future but, online networking and maintaining relationships are the methods I use to create my reputation. However, in the future, I believe attending workshops and conferences will be the main part of my PLN. For sure I will try many ways and find the ones best work with me after I start to work on my career that will help me to gain credibility while building a healthy digital identity.

Before publishing this blog, I should admit that I don’t have a good digital identity that aligns with the desired work field I am interested in. I should be concerned about it, but right now I am goal oriented to finish school successfully. I am aware of my digital identity and will put a good effort to enhance my social media presence in a way it will align with who I am!

Please see the Visitors and Residents map I designed for myself. It seems like my PLN is mainly based on Personal/Visitor.

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