Mapping out my connections has made me realize how vastly we are connected as human beings. Within one lifetime, one can be connected to many people across the globe, whether physically or digitally. My community doesn’t seem to be that large on a day-to-day basis, but it’s amazing when I take a step back and have a bird’s eye view by mapping it all out.
Most of my communities possess a shared interest and are what Veletsianos calls “ Communities of Practice “ (2016). They exist both digitally and in person. Digitally I can integrate with people with common interests in my school, work and extracurricular circles. Communication with my friends and family connections exist primarily on the internet through communication platforms such as Whatsapp and email.
Veletsianos, G. (2016). Digital learning environments. In N. Rushby & D. Surry (Eds), Handbook of Learning Technologies (pp. 242-260). UK: John Wiley & Sons.
Good thoughts, Ano. One insight that network mapping provided for me was how each of the nodes in my network actually represent many individuals, each with their own network. As you note, it is astonishing how many people we are each connected with through very few jumps across our networks–and how much easier it is to make those jumps using networked digital tools.
Ano, this mapping looks awesome. As Russ noted, with only a few connections from any spot on the map we can intersect with many of the same contacts.
~Rod
Great map Ano! I’m impressed by the number of different digital platforms you use to connect with your network. Do you find yourself using different platforms for different audiences? For example, I use WhatsApp to connect with a lot of my family, and as a result I’ve gravitated towards text message and e-mail for my work colleagues so that I can keep a better balance during my off-work time. As a result I don’t feel too guilty letting a text message sit for a couple of days, but I always respond to WhatsApp the same day. It’s curious that I’ve done this even thought the two digital platforms operate very similarly.
Hi Andrea
That’s great that you noted that. I also do the same; I mainly use MS Teams for work chats and email. I use WhatsApp / Calls occasionally at work if more time-sensitive action items need immediate attention. Using different platforms between work and off work time can really help with keeping that balance.