In chapter 5, "Using Tools To Support Connected Learning," the authors focus on how educators can effectively utilize digital tools to establish and build purposeful connections and expand their personal learning network. By creating meaningful connections, educators can grow professionally and advance their personal knowledge. This chapter highlights that technology is not the main goal; rather, it is to connect, create communities, and share ideas that can benefit both the reader and the educator. The authors further explain that choosing the right tools depends on what you plan to use them for. For example, blogs can be used to help share ideas publicly and allow readers to reflect on the post, social networks such as Twitter and Ning can help educators connect from all over the world, and wikis are useful for collaborating and coordinating a project.
Nassum Bach and Hall also stress the importance of managing your digital identity. Being aware of your digital footprint can help create a professional and positive outlook on your online presence. By using Google Alerts, you can track yourself any time your name is used in online spaces. This can help by managing the way we are perceived online. Ultimately, Chapter 5 expresses that technology can increase learning when used properly. It allows users/educators to move beyond isolation and connect to individuals all around the world, further advancing their knowledge. By doing so, we are becoming lifelong learners who are constantly reflecting, sharing, and improving our personal learning network.
In my future career as an occupational therapist, these ideas from Chapter 5 can help me use digital tools to expand my network and connect with my patients. Doing so will further advance the care I deliver to my patients as well. By joining online connected communities, I can search for new ideas, collaborate with other occupational therapists (OT's), and learn new therapeutic techniques. Not only do I have to connect with OT's, but I can connect with nurses, speech therapists, and physical therapists who tend to work in close connection with occupational therapists. By utilizing platforms mentioned throughout the chapter, such as LinkedIn, I can stay updated on current events and research in healthcare. Additionally, by monitoring my digital footprint, I can ensure my digital identity remains professional and continue to advocate for clients and share my research.
Prior to this chapter, I had never heard of Google Alerts. I can see how it would be a helpful tool in making sure your online reputation is well perceived by other therapists. Staying professional in that field is incredibly important and I am glad you are learning the tools that can help.
ReplyDeleteHi Olivia,
ReplyDeleteAmazing blog! Yes, technology is not the main goal. The main goal is to create a community with people with other amazing people who share the same thoughts of you. Social media is a great way to find groups to join and network with others.
I enjoyed your summary on this chapter and especially how you connected it to your future career as an occupational therapist. "Technology is not the main goal; rather, it is to connect, create communities, and share ideas that can benefit both the reader and the educator.” is very well said and something people overlook because it is a reminder that digital tools are most powerful when they help build relationships and expand knowledge, not just when we use them for convenience.
ReplyDeleteHi Olivia! I really enjoyed your analysis on this chapter. I think being able to network and connect with your patients is necessary in that field. I liked how you mentioned Linkedin and the importance of following your digital footprint. As a future educator I will definitely need to be sure I am thoughtful while online.
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