As I dive deeper into the realm of media literacy and digital engagement through EDCI 338, I find myself considering the intricacies of navigating the digital landscape, particularly when engaging with a public audience. In today’s interconnected world, where information travels at lightning speed and (perhaps too many) opinions are widely available, I’ve seen how the risks and benefits of engaging with a public audience in a media space are both heightened.
Firstly, let’s look at the risks, which are increased for individuals in positions of trust, including educators, influencers, or even government officials. For a public figure, their actions and words are under constant scrutiny, making them vulnerable to criticism, misinformation, and even harassment. The spreading of false information or the misinterpretation of their message can tarnish reputation and credibility, potentially jeopardizing professional relationships and opportunities in the future. Below is an example of how responding to negativity poorly can be, shall we say, unpresidential.
However, amidst the challenges lie numerous benefits of engaging with a public audience in a media space. By sharing knowledge, insights, and perspectives, individuals can foster meaningful connections, amplify their voice, and drive positive change. For educators, it creates an opportunity to extend learning beyond the classroom, engaging students (and colleagues) in thought-provoking discussions. Similarly, lawyers and government officials can use social media platforms to enhance transparency, solicit feedback, and bridge communication gaps with the public. Below is the example of Jeff Jackson, Congressman in the US. While he has come under fire recently for voting in favour of a TikTok ban, I believe this is a great example of how social media can be used by governments for transparency.
I believe that central to navigating this digital landscape is the presence of a strong Personal Learning Network PLN that values media literacy. A PLN made up of individuals that are able to critically evaluate media content, identify credible sources, and engage in respectful discussion can offer support and guidance. By exchanging ideas, sharing resources, and challenging assumptions, members of a media-literate PLNs help each other to embrace the complexities of the digital world with confidence and integrity.
In conclusion, as I reflect on the risks and benefits of engaging with a public audience in a media space, I am reminded of the profound impact of media literacy on shaping digital interactions. By growing our media literacy skills, embracing diverse viewpoints, and fostering a supportive PLN, we can navigate the online world with clarity, resilience, and purpose. As we continue to evolve in this ever-changing digital landscape, it is important to stay committed to responsible digital citizenship and informed engagement.
As of late, I’ve considered inclusion, diversity, and how they are intertwined with our professional lives. Today, I want to share my reflections and how my mindset has changed on the topic of inclusion in professional settings and how social media can be a powerful tool in fostering inclusive personal learning networks (PLNs).
First off, I believe it is important talk about and understand what inclusion truly means. It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental aspect of creating spaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute. Inclusive environments are not only morally right but also very beneficial for fostering creativity, innovation, and productivity. However, achieving true inclusion requires intentional effort and continuous learning.
Through our readings we explored the concept of PLNs and the importance of diversity within them. For those who aren’t aware, PLNs are our networks of connections, both online and offline, where we seek new insights, ideas, and support to enhance our learning. In order to maximize benefits, PLNs should ideally include diverse perspectives, experiences, and voices.
How would I Create a PLN for a Social Media Campaign?
To establish a PLN before initiating a social media campaign, I would start by pinpointing my topic of interest and then thoroughly researching key influencers and organizations in that area. Leveraging existing networks and attending relevant events would help me connect with like-minded individuals and experts. Additionally, joining online communities and actively engaging on social media platforms would expand my network further. I would maintain a list of contacts and initiate personal outreach to foster genuine relationships and potential collaborations. By following these steps, I could build a strong and inclusive PLN to support my social media campaign effectively.
What would this look like in practice?
I’m passionate about Formula 1 and in this hypothetical, I want to launch a social media campaign to promote sustainability in motorsport. Firstly, I’d research key influencers and organizations in both the motorsport and sustainability sectors. This could include drivers, teams, environmental NGOs, and sustainability-focused businesses that have preexisting relationships with F1. Next, I’d attend Formula 1 events, sustainability conferences, and webinars to network with relevant individuals and gain insights. I’d also join online communities such as motorsport forums and sustainability groups on social media platforms. By engaging with their content and initiating conversations, I’d expand my network and identify potential collaborators. Lastly, I’d reach out to influencers and organizations to introduce myself, express my campaign’s purpose, and explore partnership opportunities. Through these steps, I’d build a diverse and inclusive PLN to support my Formula 1 sustainability campaign on social media.
Leveraging Social Media to Create Inclusive PLNs
Moving on to the role of social media in cultivating inclusive PLNs, we see how social media platforms offer unparalleled opportunities for connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and engaging in conversations on various topics. When used mindfully, I’ve seen firsthand how social media can be a powerful tool for expanding our horizons, challenging our perspectives, and building meaningful relationships with individuals who bring different viewpoints to the table. As shown in my previous blog post, I employ a wide variety of sources to try to open myself up to as many learning opportunities as possible. I’ve learned that it’s often from where you least expect it that you learn the most.
Here are some ways that I believe anybody can use social media platforms to foster an inclusive PLN:
Identify Your Goals and Interests: Before diving into social media, take some time to clarify your professional goals and interests. What topics are you passionate about? What issues do you want to explore further? I am of the opinion that a clear understanding of your objectives will guide your interactions.
Choose the Right Platforms: Not all social media platforms are created equal. Each platform has its own unique community and culture. Choose the platforms that align with your goals and where you’re likely to find individuals who help expand your PLN. Whether it’s Twitter, LinkedIn, or niche forums, I try to find the spaces where I can best engage in discussions and share ideas.
Follow Diverse Voices: Diversity is key (and often overlooked) to building inclusive PLNs. Make a conscious effort to diversify your social media feeds by following individuals from different backgrounds, industries, and perspectives. Seek out voices that challenge your assumptions and broaden your understanding of the world.
Be Mindful of Accessibility and Inclusivity: In your interactions on social media, prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. Try to use alt text for images, provide transcripts for videos, and use language that is inclusive and respectful of diverse identities. By creating an accessible environment, I’ve found that this ensures that everyone can fully participate in the conversation.
In conclusion, inclusion is not just a goal to strive for but a mindset to embody in our everyday interactions. By harnessing the power of social media, I’ve learned how we can create vibrant and inclusive PLNs that empower us to learn, grow, and effect positive change in the world.
In this era of digital connectivity, us students are not only focusing on our academic endeavors but also engaging in the development of our professional networks. In this blog post, I will explore the current digital platforms students are using, strategies for expanding professional learning networks, the impact of data privacy on these networks, and the importance of creating a positive digital identity.
Current Digital Platforms in Use
In the pursuit of creating an extensive professional network, students are turning to digital platforms. Myself and the entire discussion group were in agreeance of LinkedIn being the most popular choice. The University of Victoria’s Bachelor of Commerce program, with its co-op component, emphasizes utilizing digital platforms for networking, as creating a LinkedIn profile is necessary to graduate. The platform provides a space for students to showcase their academic achievements, work experiences, and professional skills. The platform’s emphasis on professional connections and self-promotion make it a valuable – and appealing – tool for students. Along with LinkedIn, students also use a wide variety of platforms for communication. These platforms each have their own advantages and include MS Teams, Slack, Gmail, Mattermost, and more.
Expanding a Professional Learning Network
While LinkedIn is an excellent starting point, I believe that students should have multiple strategies to expand their professional learning networks. Some of these strategies can include actively participating in industry-related forums, attending virtual/in-person conferences, or joining relevant online communities. Engaging in discussions, seeking mentorship, and regularly updating one’s profile with new accomplishments are also key elements in maintaining and developing a professional learning network. Along with this, diversifying the platforms used for networking ensures a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to connecting with professionals in the field. One way I chose to expand my PLN was through joining the mentorship program as part of the Gustavson School of Business. I was connected with a UVic alumni who was able to answer questions I had about the workplace, offer advice, and serve as a link to future opportunities.
Here is a copy of my “Visitors and Residents” map, where my usage of various platforms in the digital landscape are outlined.
On the horizontal axis, we have Visitor on the left and Resident on the right. This refers to the level of my impact on the space. In other words, am I leaving traces behind? Or simply popping in and out without impacting the space itself.
On the vertical axis we have Personal and Institutional. This simply refers to whether the platform is used for personal pleasure or work/school.
While my presence in the digital world is widespread, it tends to skew towards personal and visitor. I tend to keep to myself online. I have heard far too many stories of people getting their information hacked and/or stolen online, and because of this, I try to stay as a visitor in most spaces. In spaces I am unable to do so, I limit my digital footprint to those I know personally. The two exceptions being for professional use including LinkedIn and this blog.
Data Privacy and Security
The digital landscape comes with its set of challenges concerning data privacy and security. Maintaining a professional learning network often involves sharing personal and professional information, which raises concerns about the misuse of data. On one hand, privacy settings and secure platforms can limit unauthorized access, ensuring that only relevant information is shared. On the other hand, a heightened focus on data security promotes trust within the network, fostering an environment where professionals feel secure in sharing insights and experiences. I think it is important to note that striking a balance between accessibility and security is crucial for the sustained growth of a professional learning network. Personally, I believe that I have found a good balance, and discussions with the group confirmed that most people seem to be in similar positions.
Creating a Digital Identity or Reputation
In the digital realm, crafting a positive and professional digital identity can be difficult. I believe it is all about publicizing the side of you that best reflects being professional, while still staying true to yourself. Many people of our generation have not been careful with what they post online, and this digital footprint may come back to harm them in the future. Instead, do these things:
Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your achievements and skills.
Safeguard your privacy by adjusting settings and being mindful of shared content.
Create a personal website or portfolio for a comprehensive display of your work.
Seek and provide professional recommendations to boost credibility.
By maintaining consistency, authenticity, and a thoughtful approach, anyone can craft a digital identity that aligns with their professional aspirations, opening doors to valuable opportunities within their network.
What would an Employer Think?
More and more, employers look at a candidate’s social media presence when evaluating job applications. I believe that my PLN and DPI align with professionalism, potentially positively impacting my job prospects. When I apply, I include my LinkedIn in my application. It is professional, personal, and (in my opinion) impressive. Other than LinkedIn, I have nothing posted anywhere else online other than the photo sharing platform VSCO where I post aesthetic and professionally acceptable images.
In this digital age, building a positive online identity is important for success. By using platforms like LinkedIn, actively participating in discussions, and safeguarding privacy, you can shape an authentic and credible digital professional identity. Through consistency and thoughtful engagement, one’s digital identity becomes a powerful tool, unlocking opportunities within your professional network.
In the age of the internet, our lives are built into online platforms and social networks. From the daily rituals to social activism, our engagements in the digital world contribute to the formation of a unique and dynamic identity called a Digital Professional Identity (DPI). In this blog post, I’ll delve into the concept of digital identity, its relationship with personal learning networks, and how I believe one can leverage it to their advantage.
Exploring Digital Identity
Our digital identity is essentially another side to our persona as reflected through our online interactions. As we’ve learned through the readings, the internet has become a space for socializing, gathering information, and forming communities of interest. This combination of activities contributes to the construction of our digital selves. Just as we curate our lives in the physical world, our digital identity is curated through the content we share, the communities we engage with, and the networks we form. As we discussed in our group, it is important to understand the impact that it can have on one’s career and future.
From the avid social media user scrolling through Facebook and Twitter to the passionate activist organizing movements online, everyone is actively participating in the creation of their digital identity. These identities aren’t confined to personal aspects but extend into professional realms, introducing us to the concept of Digital Professional Identity (DPI).
DPI in the Professional World
In professional spaces, Digital Professional Identity (DPI) plays a pivotal role. DPI, defined as the professional identity crafted through online interactions, is pertinent to individuals in fields ranging from finance to marketing. Professionals actively mold their digital identities by engaging in virtual communities, utilizing platforms like LinkedIn, and interacting through various online tools. Managing and understanding DPI is crucial for personal and career growth which is a point that the entire group agreed on. Strategic curation of one’s online presence helps build a positive professional brand, fosters strategic networking, and reflects a commitment to continuous learning, contributing to success in the interconnected landscape of online professionalism.
The Role of Personal Learning Networks (PLNs)
At the heart of our DPIs lie Personal Learning Networks (PLNs). These networks are the interconnected web of individuals, communities, and resources that contribute to our continuous learning and growth. Whether consciously or not, our engagement in social networks forms a part of our PLN.
For example, the respondents in the Identity-Making and Social Media reading who had their daily rituals of checking specific websites, engaging in forums, and participating in discussions. These activities contribute to the formation of their PLNs, where learning, information exchange, and community participation intertwine. PLNs extend beyond professional realms, encompassing hobbies, interests, and activism, creating a holistic digital identity.
Leveraging DPI to your Advantage
As discussed in our group, understanding and consciously managing your digital identity can be a powerful tool for personal and professional development. Here are some ways I believe you can leverage digital identity to your advantage:
Curate Your Narrative: Be intentional about the content you share online. Whether personal or professional, your online presence contributes to the narrative of who you are. Use it to showcase your expertise, passions, and interests.
Build a Positive Brand: Just as companies build brands, individuals can build a personal brand through their digital identity. Consistently share content that aligns with your values and goals, contributing to a positive and authentic personal brand.
Network Strategically: Actively engage with communities and individuals that align with your interests and professional goals. This strategic networking can open up opportunities for collaboration, learning, and career advancement.
Showcase Professionalism: In the working world, professionalism is crucial. Your online interactions, whether on forums or social media, should reflect the level of professionalism expected in your field.
Overall, our digital identity is a dynamic and multifaceted representation of who we are in the online world. Understanding the interconnected nature of DPIs and PLNs allows individuals to leverage these aspects for personal and professional growth. By curating a positive narrative, strategically networking, and showcasing professionalism, one can harness the power of their digital identity to their advantage in an increasingly connected world.
Everyone – from your little sister to your mother – is constantly connected through the ever expanding world of social media and the internet as a whole. For most, it is simply a way to spend some free time and catch up on the lives of other. However, for those who know how to use it, the concept of Personal Learning Networks (PLNs) has emerged as a transformative force, reshaping how these individuals connect, learn, and grow. At the heart of this transformation lies the dynamic relationship between social media, motivation, and the delicate balance between risks and rewards in public communications.
What does it mean to use social media?
When I think about networking using social media, I’m not just referring to the digital platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.) that connect us; it’s about the creation of connections through these services that are able to overcome geographical boundaries. I believe that social media platforms serve as the virtual bridges where professionals, educators, and enthusiasts converge to exchange ideas, share experiences, and help advance collaborative learning. Online, networking is not a linear process but rather an intricate web where knowledge flows freely in every-which-way.
Why do we use it?
Participation in networking and social media is driven by many different motivations, relating back to our groups conversations around how different people use it in different ways. The accessibility of a diverse pool of perspectives, staying ahead of industry trends, or even just finding inspiration pushes individuals into these dynamic spaces. I (along with other group members) are of the opinion that PLNs are largely fueled by the desire to learn, share, and collaborate with those with whom you would not be able to normally. The motivation lies not only in personal gain but also in contributing to the collective intelligence of the network. I found an interesting video on the future of social media and decentralized networks.
Risks and Rewards
Creating, growing, and engaging with PLNs comes with a set of risks and rewards. The openness of these spaces can expose individuals to scrutiny and, at times, misinformation. In our group, we discussed the importance of educating youth on these kinds of risks. However, I believe that the rewards far outweigh the risks. The wealth of knowledge, the creation of meaningful connections, and the exposure to diverse perspectives create an environment ripe for intellectual growth. The key for individuals wanting to make use of personal learning networks lies in navigating the risks, embracing constructive criticism, and contributing thoughtfully to the public discourse.
In conclusion, PLNs are the modern drivers of learning and growth, intricately linked to our participation in the networked world. As we embrace the digital era’s collaborative spirit, we find ourselves not only connected by technology but also encouraged by the shared pursuit of knowledge and the endless possibilities that unfold in the vast landscapes of our PLNs.
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