Hannah Herold

• Reflect on your experience in the course, your development of PLN, your use of social media platforms and networked publics, any changes in your perspective of social media in professional settings and personal use.

This course has taught me so many beneficial aspects towards PLN that have helped broaden my knowledge as a learner in my professional work life as well in my personal life, in so many ways. 

Throughout this course I’ve learnt a stronger understanding of what it means to create and establish a PLN as well as to be a part of one. In today’s generation I believe Social media and various networks are such huge contributors to showcase what you have to offer and what you bring to the table. Social media allows companies as well as colleagues to have a better understanding of who they are hiring and what they have to offer. 

Throughout my experience, I have developed a deeper understanding of how closely intertwined social media is with one’s personal identity. Every action taken on these platforms – from posting, commenting, sharing, and subscribing – can be traced back to the individual, with potential consequences that can be either beneficial or harmful. It is therefore important to exercise caution when curating an online presence, as everything shared on the internet ultimately reflects on the individual.

Personally I use Instagram as both a professional and fun platform, since joining this course I’ve certainly been more careful of who I interact with and how I do so. I’ve also been more careful of what I post knowing that what I post can reflect on how future or current employers view me. Recently I just started up a new instagram account that allows me to post my work and share my photography and video creations. This account has helped me network and connect with many like minded individuals in the industry. 

Overall, my perspective on social media has evolved with the realization of its potential benefits in the professional world. While there are certainly drawbacks to social media use, I have come to appreciate its ability to expand one’s professional learning network and promote their work. Despite the potential risks associated with social media, I believe that its benefits in the professional world make it a valuable tool for individuals looking to advance their careers and build their professional networks.

• Can your PLN be used to help professional development post-course? 

I believe my PLN can be used to help professional development post courses in various ways. PLN allows me to connect with others to learn their ideas while sharing my ideas as well. When engaging with others online I’m more inclined to connect and build a community while developing professional sources that are specific to my interests and needs. By creating a PLN I’m also developing a social identity which will most certainly help my profile post courses. 

• Can your PLN be relied on to open professional opportunities?

I think that your PLN can certainly be relied on to open professional opportunities. PLN helps me connect with like minded professionals, and learn about industry trends and opportunities. A reliable PLN can be built by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with colleagues, peers and mentors in your field. You can also build PLN by leveraging social media platforms like linkedin and Twitter, where you can connect with professionals in your industry. PLN can be a valuable asset to opening up professional opportunities in many ways.

• What is the benefit of having a PLN that values media literacy? 

Having a personal PLN that values media literacy can have multiple benefits. A PLN that values literacy can lead to better critical thinking skills – By analyzing media messages and recognizing biases in a workplace. Enhanced creativity – Understanding how media messages are created and how they can be used to convey ideas and information. Better engagement- Individuals can become more active and become more equipped to participate in public discourse. Increased collaboration- individuals can work together to share and create high quality content. All which are beneficial to having a PLN that values media literacy. 

•   Open dialogues about media literacy and factual information can create conflict;   why does this happen?

Open dialogues about media literacy and factual information can create conflict in various ways. Media literacy can tend to be tied to people’s identity, meaning that when an individual feels as if their identity is being threatened they may act out becoming defensive or hostile, creating conflict. Media may also affect people’s emotions and how they perceive things and can elicit fear, anger or even anxiety which may cause people to become defensive when they are presented with new information that challenges their beliefs. 

• What is media literacy? 

Media literacy is an essential skill for anyone who is part of a Personal Learning Network (PLN). Media literacy can include social media posts, blogs, podcasts and other social media platforms. It endorses the accuracy and reliability of information for individuals that are constantly sharing and learning new information. 

• Why is it important? 

Media literacy is important because it promotes informed decision making, critical thinking, responsible content creation, and collaboration/ communication. All which help enhance your personal PLN.

• Why is it dismissed? 

Media literacy can be dismissed in various ways without us even noticing. Some people may simply be unaware of what media literacy is and how it can benefit them. They might not see the importance of how the media can play a role in their beliefs and behaviors. Others may have a lack of resources or technology, this may make it difficult for some to become media literate or develop new social media skills.  

·       How does social media engage communications?

Social media helps people engage in conversations and communicate in various ways. By posting you are instantly allowing people to comment on your posts which might gauge interest to them as well. From there you may have other people branching off of their comments therefore starting online conversation. 

·       How does social media challenge communications? 

Social media may also challenge communications. Whenever you comment or post something you’re exposing yourself to cyberbullying and online harassment, it’s often that other people might not like what you have to say or post, and may comment something you disagree with. 

·       Is it inclusive? 

I think social media is great because it’s constantly keeping us posted with the news, and other important things we might not be able to view without certain platforms. Social media keeps us up to date, and allows us to keep in contact with our friends and family whilst making new connections. I do believe over the last few years social media has definitely become more inclusive and welcoming. More people are willing to freely express how they feel without the worry of getting slandered. However, there are times when I come across racist posts, or slang, and inappropriate content. Unfortunately I don’t think these aspects about social media will ever go away.

·       How to better use social media to build PLN – Influencers & Commentators 

 I believe there are so many different ways to use social media to build PLN, it just has to be done correctly. If influencers are wanting to build a stronger PLN I would recommend that they first gauge in conversations and communicate with their viewers by creating accessible posts to everyone, allowing discussion forums, live streams etc. This way viewers are able to discuss and learn new topics with their peers.    

·       Does your PLN amplify the views of others? 

I believe that my Personal learning Network amplifies the views of others in various ways. My personal learning network can provide opportunities to share my own ideas and perspectives, and collaborate with others on projects and initiatives. This can help to amplify my views and ideas, as well as those of others in my network. As you engage with others in your personal learning network, you may find yourself advocating for and promoting the views of others that you align with. Similarly, others in your network may advocate for your ideas and perspectives, amplifying your voice and helping to increase your influence in your chosen field.

·       The policies of employer social media communication expectations. 

When using social media in a workplace it’s always good to be aware of boundaries and guidelines employers may expect. Employers may accept professionalism, proper language, proper communication etc. They might prohibit employees from endorsing or advertising products or services on social media that compete with the company’s offerings. As Well as personal use on the various social media platforms outside of work.

• How would you create a PLN prior to engaging in a social media campaign on a topic of your choice?

I think there are various ways to create PLN to engage in a social media campaign. By campaigning for something you’re genuinely interested in, you are more likely to gauge more interest and passion, towards the topic… which social media viewers like to see. Personally I love the outdoors –  surfing and hiking,  so by campaigning for a brand or company that promotes similar interests and ambitions as I do, I am more likely to be more engaged  in the subject and therefore campaign it.

• Consider how you would introduce yourself to others consider how you would engage in initial conversation to generate interest in your campaign professionally.

Being the first person to engage in an initial conversation can be scary especially when you don’t do it often. On social media platforms it’s important for your viewers to feel like they can trust you and get to know you. Sure you may be selling a product or promoting something, but people want to know how it affects you personally. I think it’s important to gain that sense of trust. I would consider introducing myself in a video, so my viewers know my personality and realism. You can do this in a professional way via Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. To engage in an initial conversation I would consider doing a livestream chat where people can feel free to come in and out and ask questions of their choice. By promoting eye – catching, interesting content of what you have to offer people are going to be more inclined to want to read and listen to what you have to say and that creates a Public Learning Network.

• Which social media platforms are beneficial in education?

I believe facebook and instagram are some of the top social media networks that are beneficial to education. With Facebook being one of the most prominent social media sites in the world, the platform is a simple way that allows educators to reach out and network with their peers. Both instagram and Facebook are continuously keeping up with the latest trends, news education and global issues. These platforms allow you to share what’s happening in the world with your peers to help educate and make aware of the situation. There are always cons when dealing with social media however the educational benefits that instagram and facebook hold are like no other. For example – I’m not a frequent news watcher, in fact I never actually watch the news at all.. unless I’m at my parents house. I find that having instagram im constantly getting updated on global news issues, protesting issues, everything. Even if I don’t look for it, somehow it gets sent to me, posted, or talked about by a social influencer. I would say this is beneficial to me because I’m constantly in the loop about current world issues. 

• When working with the vulnerable sector, how does social media fit into professionalism and regulations? 

When working with the vulnerable sector social media fits into professionalism and regulations in a variety of ways. For some people it may be hard to juggle social media into a more professional outlook, it may be difficult to know when is an appropriate time to post something and when it’s not. You may find yourself wanting to comment something about your co-worker that you think is funny, however it is breaking your work rule of conduct and regulations. You may also think it’s okay to post pictures of your colleagues or customers, however you shouldn’t do so without permission and this could come across as offending someone, or cyber bullying. It’s important to know your boundaries in what is acceptable in YOUR workplace and what is not – and remember you are representing your employer and company so practicing self policing is a must. 

• Community communications go beyond blogs and social media shares; how does a PLN help and hinder development of thoughts and ideas in education discourse?

PLN helps development by allowing collaboration and creativity to flow within groups. Having the ability to learn and connect with different people is huge,  especially in this day and age. By having the ability to collaborate with different people, new ideas are continuously being sparked and talked about – introducing new educational concepts and learning activities. PLN hinders movement in the education discourse by engaging learners in interactive, collaborative activities to make them more proficient in the subject. Professional learning networks may also hinder development in education discourse as well. While others may thrive in collaborative learning other students may be independent and not like collaborative learning or new networking activities. 

• How do educators create discourse?

Academic discourse involves how we alter our communication when involved with an educational discussion. I believe educators create discourse by sharing and inviting friendly participation from everyone. To create discourse you want a welcoming sharing environment, for example, if my teacher wants me to speak on behalf of something but makes me feel rushed, unwelcomed, etc,  I’m not going to want to speak on it. If she makes me feel welcomed and my speaking valued then I may want to participate in the discussion. By allowing students to freely discuss their thoughts and encourage them to speak on behalf of what they are interested in, educators are creating a more safe and friendly learning environment for students and learners. 

• What is the role of social media in education 

Social media is a big part of today’s education plan. Even though it may not seem like it, we are continuously learning from each other in different ways. As a result of social media, students can be more self-directed in their learning, preparing them to find answers on their own and make independent decisions, while also enhancing collaborative learning skills. Classroom reinforcement of these social media skills can lead to better learning outcomes and critical thinking abilities. Social media can provide students with data and information to assist them with their assignments, homework, etc leaning to more learning opportunities.

Discuss in the Mattermost group aspects of education outside of the traditional classroom, include dialogue about how education in the workplace in any capacity can consist of social media & what boundaries should be considered before encouraging discourse in a professional environment.

Education outside of a traditional classroom can be done on platforms via Facebook and Instagram. Online education may be seen as a personal use however, when you emerge yourself into education on social media you can see a more professional outlook on it. Boundaries to consider is how you present yourself on social media. It’s good to remember that what you share, post and, stays on the web for longer than you think. Keep your personal account personal and your professional account professional.

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

I believe a main digital platform that students are currently using to develop their professional network is Linkedin. Linkedin allows students and graduates to connect and build an online network and personal brand. While professionals use linkedin to gauge an idea for potential employees, students may use it to start the process of making professional connections. Though Linkedin may be great for a professional outlook on a student’s portfolio, I do think there are other platforms that express areas of expertise. I think instagram has been a great way to build a personal brand and to connect and reach out to people in the business/ entrepreneurial industry. I think my instagram allows people or employers to get a better perspective about my life, and also allows me to gauge with people with similar interests to myself. I believe linkedin has a stigma around being such a professional platform that sometimes I think people forget to show their real interests and passions, and I believe instagram and facebook do a good job of demonstrating that. 

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

What students could consider when expanding their professional learning network is that typical everyday social media accounts can be used for professional intent. These social Networks are what we make out of them. If you want to have 5 different instagram accounts representing different areas of interest, nothing is stopping you. Instagram, facebook and snapchat have all been portrayed as personal use, but we can use these platforms in a professional manner to further brand ourselves by connecting with like minded people with similar interests. I also think by using these platforms you are able to further express your creative side possibly in a way that perhaps linkedin wouldn’t allow you to do. 

• Thread Discussion: How do data privacy and security limit and promote a PLN? In your network, how can you create a digital identity/ reputation?

I believe data privacy and security contribute to professional networking more than we are aware of. Main networks like facebook, instagram, and snapchat do an excellent job of keeping our privacy and information safe. We are trusting these mainstream networks with valuable information about ourselves to protect us and keep our information safe.. And that is exactly what these big companies have done. They have proven to their customers that they are capable of doing so. When signing up for a network, you’re not going to put in vulnerable information about yourself if you don’t think the network is secure. If the network has bad reviews, looks unreliable,  and untrustworthy you’re not going to sign up. However if a network is reassuring that your information is safe,  they have a good reputation and are reliable you may be more lenient to sign up. In my network I create my digital identity by posting what I’m passionate about. I’m always down for a good adventure and I feel like my socials show that about me. By posting about what I love to do, for example, surfing, and hiking, I’m able to gauge with people with similar interests and gain a following of people that are also down for an adventure and like to surf.

COMMENT

Hey Felix! I agree with you that It’s important for students wanting to expand their professional learning network to get involved with online communities. I think one way to do so is be active and express what you’re interested in on social media. By using Facebook and instagram you are able to connect with like minded people like yourself that share similar interests to you!

Hey Catriona! I totally agree with you in the fact that social media is 100% how you portray yourself. If you are putting yourself out there in a bad way employers will potentially see you as unreliable and unworthy of the job, however if you portray a good image of yourself on the web you are showing employers that you are trustworthy and reliable. I also agree with the fact that “the internet lives forever”. I too get worried every time I post something on social media knowing that whatever I post is there for good.. Even if I chose to delete that post. 

https://catrionaborys.opened.ca/author/catrionaborys1/

Hey Jacky!

I agree with you that we should share positivity when engaging with social media accounts. I think commenting more positive and restraining from the negative will certainly be more useful when people are actually seeking advice.

Discuss the values of privacy, security, the sense of agency, and what is good for communities as laws, civil society, and professional spaces engage the accountability of digital identity. 

– What is a digital identity? 

Your digital identity is essentially your footprint on the web, It contains any personal data existing online that can be traced back to you. Social media accounts such as facebook, instagram, TikTok and twitter are all good examples of how you create your digital identity. Uploading content under your name, commenting on posts, sharing, tweeting, online bank account and search history are all contributors in creating your digital identity. Having an online identity can be great for many things, it helps establish who you are online and what you have to offer. However having a digital identity can be dangerous. Future bosses and colleagues may not like what they see online or  what you post. Your digital identity could get stolen, banking information hacked, and much more. Though creating your digital identity comes with many perks it’s always good to be weary of what you are getting yourself into, and making decisions on how little or how much you would like these boundaries to be blurred.  

– Can a digital wallet provide trust in networked publics?

Today the wallet is anything but old fashioned. Digital wallets are meant to be made easy for us in an everyday setting. They store membership IDS, gift cards, coupons and even payment methods like credit or debit cards. You don’t even need to put your pin in anymore you just tap and go. I personally think digital wallets are great, they are convenient and easy, however I don’t think that they provide full trust when in networked publics. From using my digital wallet I’ve had people hack into my card multiple times and use it as their own. How does this happen? To be honest I’m not sure. It could be anything as simple as tapping your payment at a coffee shop or putting in your online banking information online. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when you’re making a transaction with an unreliable source. At times I do believe our digital wallet will provide trust in networked publics, though I do think it’s difficult to know when and where that will be. There will always be ways for someone to gather your digital information, even if not dealing with your information directly. 

– How do personal versus professional approaches to digital identity affect social media use?

Being active on social media can benefit both your personal and professional growth. Many employers not only seek your current work ethic or values however they seek your interests and your passions. They are interested to know what life outside of work looks like for you, and that may be shown on your personal social media accounts. Many companies are now embracing the worth of learning more about their employees to help determine job offers that they may grant. Posting your interests and your personality could give employers a better glimpse into what your like from a non- professional perspective. Social media accounts dictate how a company can perceive you. For example;  If you are posting inappropriate, or offensive content that appears on your socials they may not take you seriously. However if you are posting wholesome content of you hiking with friends, baking etc.., they may perceive you as a better candidate and more professional.

– How do digital identities converge in networked publics – what are the impacts and benefits?

Your digital identity can be built anywhere in a public networked setting. Social media for instance you are constantly sharing, posting, commenting and interacting with others. You are continuously building your digital identity off of these social media accounts. Social media converges everyone through different types of interactions available on these platforms. Sending posts, sharing, commenting and saving are all ways you are contributing to these interactions. This creates digital identies that are continuously expanding off one another by digital interactions. The benefits of converging digital identities in networked publics has allowed us new opportunities to make connections online, build a stronger platform on ourselves, and has allowed us to be more creative and express that side of us. There are however worrisome aspects of digital convergance, such as what you post stays up forever, deleted posts are not really gone, and a private accounts dont exactly mean your on private. Everything you post, share, and comment publicizes you even when you think your “incognito”.

– week 2-

What Does it Mean to Network Using Social Media?

I think networking with social media involves connecting and building relationships with new and current friends, colleagues, family, and businesses – via online social media platforms. Though I think this is the main idea of social networking, I do think it can varie from person to person on what they think this topic means to them. For example: different students majoring in different subjects can use networking for various things. Business students might use social networking to help brand themselves to future employeres and comapnies, perhaps to build connections with certain business they may want to pursue in the future. As for an art major they may use social networking to catch other artists eyes and potential buyers in the industry. Social networking can simply mean a variety of things depending on who you are talking to. 

How Are We Motivated to Participate in Networked Publics

Media networks have become public spaces for communication. Social media gives us a way to freely express how we are feeling and what we are passionate towards, without having to do so face to face. These active digital platforms can motivate people to participate in network publics without requiring face-to-face interaction. Humans typically like there ideas and opinions to be valued, listened to and shared. Modern day platforms such as facebook, instagram and snapchat allows society to interact digitally and express what they are passionate towards. When your passionate towards something specific you engage more- automatically causing motivation for what ever you may be interested in. For example, on instagram my search feed consists of surf, so whenever im browsing through recommended videos most of my videos that appear on my feed are surf related because im engaged with that type of content. If a soccer or basketball video appeared on my feed I wouldn’t watch it because im not passionate or engaged with that type of content. Being passionate towards something leads to motivation because your engaged with whats going on. 

What Are The Risks & Rewards of Public Communications?

Public online communications have made it possible for people to connect, share, and collaborate on topics from across the globe. Being able to access and find information along with building worldwide friendships has never been made so easy and accessible to everyone. Public communications throughout the years has allowed us to be more involved in different cultures, allowed us to see different human perspectives and angles of creativity, and has overall opened a door to more learning opportunities. It has also allowed us to fundraise, protest, and stand up for what we believe in. Public communications does come with great rewards, and without it dont think we would be where we are today as a society. Though public communications is great there are great risks when getting involved with the social world. The first problem I see as a major issue is cyberbullying, I think most people that are on a digital platform have faced some sort of cyber bullying at some point in time. You’re exposing yourself to the internet which makes you automatically more vulnerable and lose some of your privacy. Another downfall with public communications that I think is already starting to become an arrsing issue in todays society, Is the lack of real life socializing. Kids are glued to their phone, and not being taught how to properly communicate with people in real life. This could cause major issues in the future when trying to apply to a job or get a serious career. I believe that having the ability to properly communicate with people in real life is a crucial key to success.