What does it mean to network using social media?

To network using social media is a concept almost every individual takes part in. By having a cellphone, individuals can network by email and social media platforms (such as Twitter, Indeed, Instagram, Facebook, etc.). Being able to network using social media allows individuals to connect from the comfort of their own home to others across the globe. A downside to using social media to network is how an individual can only recognize someone’s online identity. Networking online allows you to hide your personal identity. A positive to using social media for networking is it allows you to connect with those who share a similar interest with you. Networking using social media provides individuals the opportunity to network and spread their message/ideas across the world. 

How are we motivated to participate in networked publics?

In the article ‘What is a Personal Learning Network (PLN)?’ by Gutierrez (2016) discusses how from the moment we are born our relationship with technology begins. Networking using media allows individuals to connect with other around the globe and form an online and offline identity (Gutierrez, 2016). Networking through media is a concept almost every individual takes part in. This is done through “sharing sites, gaming networks, forums, communities and other online spaces” (Gutierrez, 2016). Due to the easily accessible of online networking more individuals are inclined to participate. Media is the new wavelength of this generation and for those to not fall behind and keep up to date with things they will need to participate. 

What are the risks & rewards of public communications?

Although there are numerous rewards of public communications there also many downsides. The first downside is discussed in Boyd’s article ‘Networked Privacy’ (2012) is the lack of individual privacy. Boyd (2012) mentions that one slip up or data leakage that was once protected can be easily accessible to the public (p. 349). In today’s networking era, data is easily gathered and searched (Boyd, 2012, p. 349). As time continues, the future is going to be even more networked and data is going to be even further accessible (Boyd, 2012. P. 350). Looking at the rewards of public communication is providing individuals the opportunity to engage with others across the globe and build a community with a diverse group of individuals. According to Davos (2019) conference digital identity provides an increase of “political and social inclusion, facilitate[s] protection of rights, and promote[s] transparency.” Although there are risks of public communication, the rewards out way the risks. Public communication allows individuals to engage with others, grow a business, and begin a movement to spread learning. 

What is digital identity?

Digital Identity is ultimately the identity you portray of yourself to the internet (World Economic Forum, 2019).  This is done through engaging with other online users, what you post on your social media profiles and what platforms you choose to engage in. What you choose to share online represents the way individuals portray you and potentially provide you with advancement opportunities. 

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

Personal versus professional approaches to digital identity affect social media due to the way individuals engage and network. When individuals are using it for personal use they are socializing, scrolling through media platforms, and watching videos. Whereas for professional use, an individual is using social media to network to obtain a job or volunteer opportunities. To separate your personal from your professional digital identity many individuals create separate accounts. An example is having a personal twitter account to follow funny tweets. Then having a professional account where you follow mentors, your boss, coworkers to share and message about your career force. Creating serval accounts on a social media platform can guide you to separate your personal from professional life. 

 How do digital identities converge in networked publics- what are the impacts and/or benefits?          

Public Network gives society a huge advantage, the ability to connect with people all around the world. We are now able to connect, create discussion and work with people in different time zone, people who speak a different language than us, people of different ages, ethnicity, experiences etc. It is a space where my digital identity can connect and work with another person on the platform. The consequence of public network and connecting through our digital identity is our digital footprint, security, and privacy. What we say and share in this network is there forever, someone can save it, share it, and interact with it and it becomes a part of multiple digital footprints and no longer owned by you. This can be a positive or negative consequence, if trying to engage in discussion, share thoughts, ask questions, share resource came across or accomplishment it is a great way to keep it forever. But speaking without care of other people around you and using for example slurs on the internet can have a negative consequence on career, education, and personal life. If a company, you work for comes across this it may be enough to lose your job and keep other companies from hiring you. 

This week I have interacted with Caitlin, Gurbir, and Kira blog posts:

Caitlin’s Blog:

Blog #1: personal learning networks and digital identity

Gurbir’s Blog:

https://edci338gb.opened.ca/personal-learning-networks-and-digital-identity-blog-post-1/#comments

Kira’s Blog:

Blog post #1

Reference

Boyd, D. (2012). Networked privacy. Surveillance & society, 10(3/4), 348.

Gutierrez, Karla. “What are Personal Learning Networks?” SHIFT, 21 June 2016. https://www.futurelearn.com/info/courses/learning-network-age/0/steps/24644.  Accessed 17 September 2021.World Economic Forum (2019, February 5). Davos 2019- Press Conference The Value of Digital 

Identity for the Global Economy and Society. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-V7lyxrOmw