Answering the question on how participating in a digital network supports my learning & professional development forced me to think about my identity online. I would enjoy: finding colleagues with mutual interests, discovering quality resources to support my students and my research interests, learning how others use networking to augment their classes. A couple of authors suggested that building an identity and regularly engaging in networking can build and actually strengthen one’s identity, though one takes a risk because nothing is totally safe. Nothing ventured, nothing gained! I am up for the challenge, and look forward to connecting more regularly.
Joe Murphy says
Yes, nothing ventured, nothing gained! I find I shy away from terms like “engaging in networking” because it seems abstract; for me, it’s helpful to break that down into specific behaviors like sharing good links you come across, offering answers when people post questions (or even asking clarifying questions), or leaving supportive comments (hopefully like this one here). Those are activities which can raise your profile in a good way in a new community and help you develop that identity.
Joyce Gibson says
Joe,
Thanks for your advice. It makes sense to make useful, specific comments. I found it interesting that one blogger moved from the wisdom of her child’s insights to issues of social justice, something I am passionate about.