How do I cultivate my digital presence? Since we are living in participatory culture (Jenkins, 2009), information absorption is definitely not enough. We not only have to be contributors to the online space but, we have to do it constructively! My initial answer (might be changed as I mature digitally) is through meaningful purposeful contribution with different networks and communities.
When I think about a plan on cultivating my digital presence, my initial goal is having a global contributive voice/presence in the online networks and communities of educators, interested in teaching, learning and educational technology in higher education in the western part of the world (North America) where I currently live, since I have already established a solid network and community in the east part (Middle east and some parts of the far east). Ultimately, after that, I can think of a way to connect these two interesting parts of the world.
Reflecting on my digital map and my visitor/resident typology (Whites,2011). The approach I will be applying is through cultivating my participatory identity in different online platforms such as: LinkedIn, Twitter and MALAT blog in the western online networks and communities.
With respect to the skills and knowledge gaps, I think finding inspiring networks and communities that serve my goal will be challenging. One way of overcoming this challenge is through effectively using LinkedIn, Twitter to target these networks. Also, I plan on seizing MALAT current and past cohorts’ blogs as a great resource where I can participate, learn and engage with networks of professionals who share same interests and commonalities. Another resource (could be changed) is Educational Technology Users Group (ETUG) in BC, Canada where I can take workshops and participate in online activities or get to know the members.
Measuring the success of my plan will be through the number of workshops/ activities I participate in groups such as ETUG. As to my digital presence in new networks and communities, I will consider myself successful when my participation will reflect my level of engagement with these networks and communities and by creating a voice and moving towards a “resident” professional participant.
References
Jenkins, H. (2009). Confronting the challenges of participatory culture: Media education for the 21st century. MIT Press.
White, D. S., & LeCornu, A. (2011). Visitors and residents: A new typology for online engagement. First Monday, 16(9).
July 25, 2019 at 10:11 pm
It is a privilege working with someone who has a global perspective. You have inspired me visit Twitter more often (but not Linkedin).
July 26, 2019 at 7:41 am
Thanks for sharing Tala, it is exciting that you plan to converge your past digital contributions and future contributions – this could shape into some exciting opportunities for you in the worldwide digital community!