Themes of a PLN in professional capacity from Videos

Personalized learning networks in a professional setting helps with connection with people of similar interest. Additionally, they can help connect with people of different backgrounds, gaining insight in other fields and could spark interests in different careers. Through a PLN one can share their own knowledge and insight with others and support one another as they grow as professionals. Personalized learning networks in a professional capacity also comes with some challenges. One should be mindful of their own digital footprint when using PLN in a professional setting; social media posts may violate one’s workplace policies or give off a bad image for the company. A good understanding of privacy and security can help in this,however, an overall mindfulness of social media usage is still necessary. 

Which social media platforms are beneficial in education?

Social media platforms can be beneficial in education if used properly. For an example: Facebook can be utilized as a learning tool by creating groups for education, Facebook posts informing students of information, and using Facebook live stream/video feature to stream live meetings/lectures. Like wise Twitter could be used a message or discussion board for students. The character limit of tweets could be useful restriction as it forces students to be critically thinking about how they can communicate their opinions in a concise and short way. Instagram can be used as a promotion for education events or marketing for potential students to join a particular school. Instagram is widely used by the younger generation and could easily attract many new students or inform students of new opportunities within the school. 

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

The vulnerable sector was created to protect citizens most vulnerable from individuals that may present a direct threat to them. The background check for working in the vulnerable sector is a bit more extensive and thus individuals working in this sector should be more careful about their digital footprint. Social media mindfulness is extra important in this instance. Workers should not discuss anything negative about people they work with and should post everything that makes them seem like a potential risk to the vulnerable sector.