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

(Figure 1.1 – Graph ranks the most popular social media apps based on users in millions)

Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and TikTok remain the most popular digital platforms used in 2022. Likewise, I would argue LinkedIn is the most popular professional network used by students. Upon observation, my V&R map highlighted my professional use of Gmail, Slack and LinkedIn. Many students use LinkedIn to make professional connections with professors, classmates and future employers. Additionally, they use Gmail to communicate regularly and strengthen their professional network.

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

In-Person Impressions

  • Attending a networking event hosted by locals or their university would allow students the opportunity to mingle and meet professionals in person. Furthering their PLN, they would be able to make the acquaintance of local businessmen/women, professors and potential mentors. Making an appearance in person allows for a longer-lasting impression and opens the door to connections online.

Positive Attitude

  • A positive open-minded approach always leaves a memorable impression behind

Be Active

  • Being an active participant in local community events, charities and meetings let members notice your appreciation for community involvement 

Have an Online Portfolio

  • Make sure your online profiles reflect the work you’ve done or are passionate about. Having it easily accessible allows future employers or recruiters interested in contacting you. This ties into Blog #2 and what your digital identity reflects about you.

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

(Figure 1.2 – Privacy & Surveillance Quiz Responses)

Above are my self-assessment quiz responses from https://digitaltattoo.ubc.ca/quizzes/privacy-and-surveillance/ of my knowledge of Privacy and Surveillance. It is important to be self-aware of privacy risks around you in order to protect your PLN. Being conscious of data breaches and making smart decisions will help protect you. Such as: making sure you don’t access sensitive information like online banking while on public wifi, using unique passwords for each website, being mindful of location settings while posting content, etc.

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

Highlighting the importance of Having an Online Portfolio as mentioned above. Your digital identity should reflect in your social media presence. Personally, my I view my Instagram as a creative expression of my abilities to create video/media content. When potential brands view my page I want them to view my content as a reflection of my skills. Keeping your media up to date and highlighting professional achievements is an excellent way to assemble a positive reputation.

How did pivots to work-from-home during the COVID-19 pandemic change how we should consider our social media connectivity and professional balance?

During the peak of isolation due to COVID-19, I found myself deeply immersed in social media. Statistics Canada noted that “over 90% of 15 to 34 years of age indicated that they had done more activities online” during the pandemic. Increasing their leisure time spent online shopping, posting content and video calling. So much so that “57% of individuals 16 years of age and older increased their use of video calls with family and friends during the pandemic”. With the transition to many experiencing working from home for the first time, the preference for a 9-5 office job is slowly diminishing.

V&R Map:

References:

Bilodeau, H., Kehler, A., Minnema, N. (2021). Internet use and COVID-19: how the pandemic increased the amount of time Canadians spend online. Statistics Canada. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/45-28-0001/2021001/article/00027-eng.htm

White, D.S., & Le Cornu, A. (2011). Visitors and residents: a new typology for online engagement. First Monday, 16. https://firstmonday.org/ojs/index.php/fm/article/view/3171/3049

http://experimental.worldcat.org/vandrmapping/assets/documents/VRAMappingInstructions.pdf

The Digital Visitor and Resident Continuum White. D. (2017).

V and R Mapping. Retrieved from https://daveowhite.com/vandr/

PLN space through Social Media platforms (Developing awareness)

Privacy, Ethics & Security in Digital Spaces Developing Awareness of Privacy https://digitaltattoo.ubc.ca/quizzes/privacy-and-surveillance/ Regan, P., & Jesse, J. (2019).