To begin brainstorming for this network map activity, I searched Google images and learned from Dave Cormier again to generate ideas. During this time, I also decided to attempt using the free basic version of Kumu to build the network map.
The brainstorming process made me realize that the network map I am creating today is significantly different than a network map I would have developed at the beginning of 2023. Having myself as the main node would have been the same; however, an additional node of people emerged this spring with our MALAT community.
Therefore, I identified three main communities. They consist of the following people distinguished by colours on the network map:
*Orange – Family and Friends
*Green – MITT Work Colleagues
*Yellow – RRU Classmates and Professors
In addition, my digital platform and tool connections are represented in grey and loop into my main community nodes of people. These loops are vital in emphasizing the importance of technology being the connector in these relationships.
Lastly, springtime growth became evident during the looping process of my RRU classmates with such connecting/observing in Twitter, Etsy, and LinkedIn as a few examples. This rapid growth made me ponder that my network map of today may look significantly different by summertime or even sooner.
Did my network mapping experience resonate with anyone? Or did you have a completely different journey? I am interested in learning more!
Russ Wilde
Interesting thoughts, Marni. I’ve had similar experiences when looking at my own network evolution over time.
A question that I have found interesting to consider is what my network map might look like had I lived one generation earlier. Would it have been smaller? Would the connections have been stronger, more frequent? What has been potentially gained or lost in our connections with each other due to networking technologies?
This question could also be extended into the future. What will even more advanced technologies allow for our networks? Is it possible for them to grow much further in a meaningful sense? Will Dunbar’s number still be a relevant concept? (Han, 2021)
Han, S. (2021, May 20). You Can Only Maintain So Many Close Friendships. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2021/05/robin-dunbar-explains-circles-friendship-dunbars-number/618931/
Marni Russell
Thanks for the questions, Russ. I have certainly been pondering them. I am confident that my network map would have been a lot smaller a generation ago with stronger connections. When I read Dunbar’s number, I thought there is no way I have that many friends. However, I definitely have that many connections on LinkedIn for example. The future remains to be seen at this duration as to new and meaningful growth with my connections.
With respect to the future, I suggest the optional reading by Henry Jenkins listed in Unit 2. Even though this book was written years ago, many of the suggestions throughout the chapters are still valid today. For example, the tip to incorporate gaming into learning engagement (Jenkins, 2009, p.17). Moreover, I wonder if there will come a time when this book does not make it onto the readings list due to its relevancy. Only time will tell!
Jenkins, H. (2009). Confronting the challenges of participatory culture: Media education for the 21st century. MIT Press.