What are the benefits of a diverse and inclusive PLN in social media sharing that understands where you are coming from with messaging that impacts the community?
By having a diverse and inclusive PLN, we benefit from hearing other perspectives from different backgrounds but on the same issue. This enables us to think critically about ideas that we might haven’t thought of and consider other opinions. In an inclusive network, these diverse ideas are welcomed with an open-mind and communicated in a respectful way in order to provide a safe environment for all of them. This safe and inclusive environment where all voices are heard and respected creates a base for an effective network that with its members can advocate for their community together. By engaging through social media in your PLN, you can also choose to engage locally, globally, nationally and/or by the issue as well (Figure 4.2).
It was interesting to learn from the reading about how public media differs from activist media: “ While Public media actively engage users, allow them to address and critique those in power, activist media on the other hand, dictate a particular ideological approach.” Engaging in public media allows participants to communicate effectively about issues that require public action and it is important to understand that these publics are formed mostly of people who are “drawn out of those comfort zones by the issues they face in common with people they don’t normally talk to.
Markiel Simpson – https://www.markielsimpson.ca/about
Markiel Simpson has been connected with many of the marginalized communities that he is advocating for even before his political career which made an easier transition to politics given also his educational background. Markiel utilizes social media platforms to connect with communities and fight against racism, and also shares the common language (like #strongertogether) to stay connected with his Personal Learning Network.
Jansen, S.C. et al (2011): Media and Social Justice. Chapter 4. Parlgrave M.
Miller, J. (2021, June 1). EDCI – 338 Markiel Simpson. YouTube. Retrieved October 29, 2021 https://youtu.be/rsoDHGaXNNs
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