Month: November 2023

As the information society transitions to a network society, we have witnessed the evolution of diverse learning methods. Alec Couros and Katia Hildebrandt, in discussing this challenge, specifically highlight the potential of social media in shaping our professional growth and opening up career opportunities.

As a novice in building a Personal Learning Network (PLN), I keenly feel the double-edged sword of this process. Indeed, my PLN has not yet fully supported my professional development post-course. As a continuous learner, I realize my knowledge base needs enrichment, which could mislead those learning through my PLN.

However, I believe this issue is not insurmountable. As Couros and Hildebrandt emphasize, learning in a network society is a dynamic process, with each of us progressing through constant interaction and communication. My blog may have grammatical and spelling errors, but it also reflects the real process of learning, encouraging a culture of transparency and authenticity.

Regarding whether PLNs can open new professional opportunities, although my network is in its infancy, it provides a platform to connect and communicate with students from different majors within the school. Every interaction is a potential opportunity, whether through blog comments, social media interactions, or online seminars, as I expand my professional horizon.

Ultimately, my PLN is a long-term investment. It is not just a tool for professional development but a community for building global connections. I believe as my professional knowledge and PLN content grow, this network will bring infinite possibilities for me and my peers.

In the 21st century, we find ourselves in an environment dominated by digital media and a variety of media choices. This environment poses new challenges for us as students: understanding how to utilize media resources to optimize learning, and using media creation tools to develop effective communication products such as videos, audio podcasts, and websites. Just like with blogs, we must maintain objectivity and truthfulness in conveying the knowledge or content we wish to express.

But why does conflict arise? With the increasing variety of media forms, we are surrounded by an abundance of information every day. In this environment, distinguishing between true and false information becomes increasingly difficult. This is why a high level of media literacy is crucial. It enables us to choose the right media for a particular topic, obtain proper permission to use others’ materials, and effectively design and create digital content. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many people promoted masks that did not protect against the virus for their own business interests. People with medical knowledge criticized these unscrupulous merchants online. However, those without such knowledge might have purchased these masks and been harmed.

So, what are the benefits of having a Personal Learning Network (PLN) that values media literacy? Firstly, it helps us to efficiently and effectively acquire and assess information. In projects like SARS research, this means students must collect, review, compare, analyze, summarize, and visualize a vast amount of medical, scientific, sociological, and governmental information. This not only requires the accuracy and reliability of information but also involves deciding which information is most useful and interesting and how to organize and present this information to engage users.

In summary, media literacy is not just about the skill of acquiring information; it includes how to critically assess information and how to use it creatively. We should not blindly trust knowledge found online but should develop the ability to discern truth from falsehood through repeated verification.

In the new chapter of digital learning, Personal Learning Networks (PLN) play a pivotal role, especially against the backdrop of open and social learning. This post will explore the application of PLNs in education, especially from a student’s perspective.

Introduction:
Personal Learning Networks (PLNs) are a precious asset for modern students and indeed everyone, connecting learners globally with educators and resources, offering endless possibilities for personalized learning. In this blog, I’ll summarize my take on the current phase of digital education development, the different approaches for professionals versus laypeople, and how my own PLN has expanded my efficiency in learning.

Social Media and Education:
Social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn have become vital tools for professionals to extend their PLNs. Additionally, innovative online courses, such as the plethora of expert knowledge on YouTube, and specific programs offering courses for purchase, provide ample digital education platforms and methods for my PLN to choose from.

Social Media and the Vulnerable Sector:
When working with vulnerable groups, I believe social media has done a great job, but dangers can still lurk, like inappropriate content for minors or online gambling slipping through Google’s filters. At times like this, I think parents can discern these sites and build a PLN for their children, allowing them to interact and learn from the world in a safer environment.

Conclusion:
PLNs are also crucial for the professional development of educators. They should actively utilize these networks to bring more advanced technology and knowledge to their students.

My Perspective:
The video taught me that a PLN should be divided into three steps: get connected, try something new, and give back. Firstly, we should connect with social media bloggers in areas we’re interested in. Then, be brave in trying new things and actively seek advice. Lastly, sharing our exploration and challenges not only gets us help but also prepares us for similar future encounters. We can choose the method we’re comfortable with for each step, like forums and blogs for those who prefer writing or video software for face-to-face communication.

In this blog post, I’ll dive into the nuances of social media interactions with the public, exploring the potential risks and rewards. Drawing from personal experience and insights from Martin Hirst’s “Navigating Social Journalism,” I reflect on how public figures can craft their image through social media, and the importance of building a trustworthy Personal Learning Network (PLN) for sharing information and fostering community.

As a Chinese student studying in Canada, I’ve realized that social media is a primary lens through which we view public figures. The case of former President Trump highlights how public figures might manipulate media narratives—sometimes through misinformation—to shape public perception, a practice Martin Hirst cautions against due to its potential to mislead and harm society.

Yet, social media also serves as a platform for public figures to project their values. Take, for example, a well-known real estate mogul and government official who was criticized for wearing an expensive belt. This incident exemplifies how media can distort and magnify the personal choices of public figures.

Being in the public eye has its perks—it opens doors for idea exchange and connection building. Through social media, we can cultivate a PLN, sharing reliable information, and creating a supportive community. It’s crucial to filter the right kind of people and healthy information, steering clear of illegal or discriminatory topics that add no value to our lives. Dependence on verifiable resources is key when conveying information; personal opinions need critical evaluation before acceptance.

When faced with negative comments, I maintain rationality and respect. I selectively engage with constructive criticism, viewing it as an opportunity for growth. As for comments that clash with my values, I stand firm while remaining professional and courteous.

In conclusion, social media is a powerful tool for image crafting, information sharing, and community building. We must navigate it with caution, ensuring our communications are grounded in authenticity and respect.