Month: October 2022

In the era of rapid development of new media, social media has brought revolutionary changes to people’s communication. Social media are different from traditional media in terms of communication mode, content and effect. First, the most important feature of social media is that it gives everyone equal rights to produce and disseminate information, and everyone is both a producer and a receiver of information. Social media is inclusive, people are free to express their views and browse and comment on others’ opinion on social media platforms.

The pluralistic and inclusive nature of social platforms creates a harmonious environment for building PLN. Different views on an issue collide on social media platforms, but they do not cause a riot in public opinion. People are exposed to new perspectives while retaining their own, and these new ideas can enhance our critical thinking, analyze and solve problems from more perspectives.

After read this week’s article, I really agree with Bianca Woods opinion about building PLN.   Communication is an important and useful ability to get new ideas and information. I enjoy join some online forum or chat groups. I can always find some interesting speech from different areas. But this article also reminds me that besides listen to others opinion, I should also export my views. 

Back to the question about how would I create a PLN prior to engaging in a social media campaign on a topic of my choice, I think I may look through some relative informations through, for example, blog, magazines, podcasts and so on, to collects some new ideas. Then, leave my own insights and discuss them with others through comments replies, etc. I also hope to make new connections with more like-minded people in this process.

Reference

Woods, B. (2013, November). Building your own PLN: seeking new insights and ideas? Expand your personal learning network. T+D, 67(11), 70+. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A348998538/ITBC?u=uvictoria&sid=summon&xid=1010abdf

• What digital platforms are students currently using to develop their professional network?

Through our discussions, students mainly use email and Google Doc to develop their professional network. Students use email and other platforms, such as Mattermost, Teams, or Zoom, to communicate with their teachers and classmates. Online tools such as Google Doc help students share their ideas when working in groups.

• What could the student consider in expanding their professional learning network?

When expanding professional learning network, students should expand their knowledge in multiple dimensions. You can start by choosing your area of interest, then subscribe to relevant professional blogs in Google Reader or Word Press, and build your PLN by reading these blogs. In addition, when choosing some social networking platforms, you can choose one or two most interesting and high quality sites to explore in depth.

• How does data privacy and security limit and/or promote a PLN?

The privacy and security of data may limit the building of PLN, but it will also standardize people’s online habits. In order to protect personal information, more and more people are setting permissions for their websites or blogs. For example, you need to add friends or by sending a request to access the website in question. This prevents someone from stealing maliciously and protects personal copyright information.

• In your network, how can you create a digital identity/ reputation?

If I wanted to make my digital identity look professional, I would first make my personal page (my avatar, profile, etc.) formal. Also, I would avoid posting private content and set permissions for it.

• Consider how an employer would respond if you applied for a job with them and they assessed your social media presence via your digital identity.

When looking for a job, employers may get to know you initially through your social media platforms. At this time, some of the comments you have made in the past may affect people’s first impression.