visual networks
For this particular assignment, we were asked to create a visual map of our networks, informed from readings and presentations such as the video presentation from Marc Smith, founder of the Social Media Research Foundation. I had never really thought about how we lack a visual representation of an online crowd, or the significance of what these relationships can tell us. From this point of view, I enjoyed learning about the work that Marc Smith does.
In his video, Smith discusses his interest and the study of crowds. As he puts it: “Crowds matter. When crowds fill a public space, they can change history.” (Smith, 2016). Because of the nature of my full-time role at Island Health, I found the concept of being able to visualize the relationship and networks of people connected via social media very interesting and sparked my curiosity to learn more about how this can be done for inquiry and discovery.
Turning to the assignment, I chose to create a map using four major networks significant in my life: my full-time employer Island Health, my Royal Roads MALAT program, my part-time employer Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and my friends and family. Using these four networks as a starting point, I began to list out the means I use to connect with the individuals and groups within these networks.
At first I thought I would have very distinct tools and platforms in each network; upon creating the map I realized there is some overlap. For example, there is common usage of WhatsApp in my friends and family network and my Royal Roads network; and some overlap with Kwantlen and Royal Roads.
It is interesting for me to see how I didn’t even factor in social media usage that much, since my own personal use of social media has really declined in recent years, despite what I do for a living as a digital engagement leader. I will explore this more in my digital identity and digital presence plan as I unpack the question of how much engagement is still engagement? If we check Facebook twice a year, is this still a means of connection? What do others consider to be a means to stay connected even if it is something they rarely or seldom use?