Inclusion & PLN & Diversity

baowenliu
1 Comment

Reflecting on my online habits before taking EDCI 338, I used to casually scroll through social media posts and videos without much thought. My understanding of Personal Learning Networks (PLNs) was minimal, let alone awareness of online inclusion and diversity. After these weeks of study, I’ve gained new insights into PLNs. I’ve started noticing diversity online, reflecting on whether the people I follow share a certain level of intellectual resonance with me, and whether I maintain an open attitude toward those with differing worldviews. I realized I’ve always supported embracing differences online and agree with the perspective shared in the YouTube video our instructor posted: ā€œThe goal is not to change what is different in another personā€ (Five Moore Minutes, 2025)ļ¼Œbut to allow those differences to exist.

Social media is diverse, and my personal learning network (PLN) typically includes apps like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. The online content I gather is often inaccessible in real lifeā€”for instance, I can witness Chinese hikers traversing the entire Ao-Tai Trail on Mount Taibai in Xi’an, or view daily vlogs from students at prestigious institutions like Harvard Business School. Social media spans vast distances and encompasses broad perspectives, teaching me countless lessons unavailable in the classroom. This reflects the strengths of inclusivity and diversity. Yet it also raises a question: What is real? What is fake? Personal online experiences are inherently subjective, and I often cannot verify their authenticity. However, through years of online engagement, I’ve learned to filter information that benefits me while maintaining vigilance. I especially avoid content tied to financial interests or monetary gain.

From a career development perspective, a professional PLN that reflects personal values is particularly important. I believe the key lies in striking the right balance between personal values and professional ethicsā€”allowing employers to understand my unique perspective while showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of my PLN.

Youtube Videoļ¼šFive Moore Minutes. (2025, February 8).Ā Inclusion is not Assimilation: Understanding communities of identity and diversity. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IOGOE_qQfM

ā€Œ

One Comment

  1. I like how you acknowledged your shift from passive scrolling to more intentional engagement online, this really shows the impact of learning to critically evaluate who and what we include in our PLNs. I also like the honestly about questioning authenticity online and your point on filtering content carefully, especially when financial m motives are involved.

Comments are closed.