Month: July 2023

This week’s readings prompt us to think about networked societies and the importance of digital tools and spaces. Since there has been a massive increase in the use of technological advances to improve and develop society and form connections over media platforms, I believe it is very likely that individuals will continue to create content within their network. Creating content is an element of our culture that enables connections, the development of skills and creates new situations for access and sharing of information. Additionally, Del Giudice (2013) discusses how networks take into account social and economic environments and how communities are built through shared content in their network that maintains and fosters these environments. Though they can be expressed or shown in different forms depending on the environment and the type of content that is created, the key goal is to build connections and enable opportunities for self-communication. In this generation, mass self-communication has been demonstrated through various social media platforms and it allows for information to be shared about communities and individuals alike. The skills that have been developed through networked societies can foster and build on skills like effective communication, adaptability, leadership, and creative thinking. While settings can vary and change depending on the profession, it is important to recognize how these skills can transform how businesses and organizations are run on a local and global scale.

The prompt about open dialogues can rise true in online settings as it can be controversial for some. Individuals who can share the truth about media literacy and what is an appropriate form of communication may find that their beliefs can challenge others. One aspect I can relate this to is cultural practices that may seem inappropriate or unwelcome by other cultures. Having open discourse about what is appropriate and what is not while including factual information, may not be well received by others and are open to challenge. Additionally, it can be a source of conflict due to the idea of what can be considered valid information to share and who has access to it. Many countries, nations, and independent populations (communities that do not use media platforms) may challenge ideas of who should be allowed to access, evaluate and distribute certain types of information. While different messages, posts, and other media content can be open to the eye of the interpreter, some may believe that access to it should not exist to any extent. However, if we were to create our PLN around individuals and organizations that have similar values regarding media literacy, it would be easier to form opinions and make changes that benefit viewers to promote open and factual information. Though it may be difficult to see the information the same, having like-minded and supportive individuals whose primary goals are to provide meaningful, easy, and useful support to access information and media content the same, we would be able to cope with the ever-changing media tools and content that comes our way. 

Social media platforms often generate images, thoughts, and opinions related to entertainment and distractions from stressors or daily life. However, it can be used to benefit education systems through various methods. This week’s video emphasized how teachers can use their PLN to learn from and share ideas with others. One aspect that was highlighted was to get connected with other teachers and educators who share similar interests. Examples such as Twitter and Facebook were provided as they can increase connection and provide educators with an opportunity to share ideas and successes. In addition, they also highlight barriers and failures to certain education plans, which can help other educators to avoid making the same mistakes or give alterations to their current sources. Furthermore, we should consider that social media exposes many lifestyles, backgrounds, and ideas that may not be appropriate for certain settings or considerate to vulnerable populations. Social media has the job of sharing vital news with audiences, but those creating and sharing content must take into account professional boundaries and regulations. One has to use their learning environment to make judgments that are fair, considerate, and informative to allow those to learn while also ensuring safety and professionalism. This can work through using tools to express warning messages such as triggering and violent content. It can also address various types of knowledge, skills, and assets that exist. The key takeaway from these readings is that these tools can be used effectively in learning environments, however, they must be well-understood, before they are utilized and further developed.sider that social media exposes many lifestyles, backgrounds, and ideas that may not be appropriate for certain settings or considerate to vulnerable populations. Social media has the job of sharing vital news with audiences, but those creating and sharing content must take into account professional boundaries and regulations. One has to use their learning environment to make judgments that are fair, considerate, and informative to allow those to learn while also ensuring safety and professionalism. This can work through using tools to express warning messages such as triggering and violent content. It can also address various types of knowledge, skills, and assets that exist. The key takeaway from these readings is that these tools can be used effectively in learning environments, however, they must be well-understood, before they are utilized and further developed. 

This week’s readings and podcast emphasized the concept of fake news and navigating our search for the truth amongst mainstream and heavily influenced political discourse. An example provided was a well-known one of fake news from the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election. This historical moment spread worldwide due to the many elements of communication and media that  addressed potential alterations in information regarding one of the candidates. While fake news can spread fast, it should consider what it is versus how it is perceived. In this case, it was perceived as a direct target of the individuals’ character and beliefs that may be unwanted or unfavorable. More accurately, it would expose systemic issues, propagate targeted news articles, and could be commercially advertised. This highlights how public figures who engage with audiences within the media can be at risk and how any information linked to them can be exposed, manipulated, and altered to fit an agenda. However, it can also highlight their true beliefs and expectations of their society that they may not want to be true. The severity of the situation can vary, however, it does not change how addressing certain issues or topics should always come with a cautionary warning to be considerate of what you say and how you say it. This is especially true for media platforms as they remain constant and ever-lasting on the internet for future generations to see and interact with. This also raises the question of how best to address negative responses and reviews that reflect one’s values. If your belief system is being targeted or questioned, I think it is important to attempt to understand other perspectives and the information they used to formulate their opinion. While it may be difficult to understand, it is important to acknowledge that all values must be respected as long as they do not pose harm or threats to someone else. Though I do follow this school of thought, this can change based on many unique circumstances and should be handled case by case. 

Some of the key benefits of having a diverse and inclusive PLN lie in the aspects of accessibility to various types of discourse. As highlighted by this week’s reading, media is both for and by the public which can allow various individuals, communities and organizations to hear different perspectives as well as share how they view certain things and facts that others may not be aware of. This impacts the community in a way that highlights how we should create, observe and develop online communities and public media that is inclusive and continues to build on this. While many public media platforms and social media platforms may differ in how messages are communicated, their main goals are the same; which is to educate, inform and mobilize users. If we are able to build on different opinions and facts from diverse and inclusive networks, we can further educate, support and share information to communities that may not have access to each other or their information. Though it may seem like an unorthodox platform to some to share such vital information, it is important to consider how we reach new audiences and the type of access they have to various networks based on their background. If we are able to engage new audiences to both entertain and share vital information, we are able to increase individuals’ PLN’s and their opportunities.