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

Currently, some of the most popular digital platforms that students use to develop their professional networks are LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. LinkedIn is a social media platform that strictly focuses on business and employment, with the primary use of allowing its users to network and further develop their professional careers. On the other hand, Facebook and Instagram are other social media platforms that don’t strictly focus on business/employment but can, however, allow users to make connections to individuals and/or businesses that may potentially lead to growth in their professional networks.

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

Combining the use of multiple digital platforms, such as the ones mentioned above, would be incredibly beneficial for individuals wanting to expand their professional learning network. For example, if an individual wanted to meet more people in the same profession as them, Facebook and Instagram can be used to find groups and accounts regarding said area of work. From there, that individual can filter through hundreds of accounts, both personal and businesses, and find those that they want to connect with. Once they have done so, they can then choose whether or not to connect with those individuals/businesses through a more formal platform than Facebook or Instagram, such as LinkedIn and/or Indeed.

How do data privacy and security limit and promote a PLN? In your network, how can you create a digital identity/ reputation?

The use of a professional learning network is often dependant on the privacy and security of data. That is, the more secure and private a digital platform is, the higher the likelihood is of inputing more personal information. This, of course, would mean that a weak form a privacy and security would limit the use of PLN’s due to the concern that said information could be exposed. When looking at your own network, the privacy and security of your data should always be considered prior to releasing any information on a digital platform. Personally, in order to create a digital identity/reputation in my networks, I try my best to be very particular about the information I release. Although I use some platforms for more personal or professional reasons, I do my best to only share information/content that I would feel comfortable telling strangers – after all, that’s essentially what we do when we post on any digital platform.