The need for professional digital networks
Our Personal Learning Networks
Social media have made us more connected to each other, and to information, than ever before. We have become ‘Networked Individuals’ living, working and learning in a ‘Networked Society’.Throughout our lives we continuously make connections to people, organisations and information sources, some of which we maintain and others we don’t. When we need to accomplish a task we often call on those connections, be they strong or weak, to help us.Living in a networked society means that those connections are no longer just in the physical world, but also in the digital space – we have connections not just to people or organisations, but to devices, software and web pages. In short, we sit at the centre of a complex network of on and offline relationships – our Personal Learning Network. It is therefore vital that we are able to ‘Grow’, ‘Manage’ and ‘Activate’ our networks effectively if we want to maximise our potential in both our personal and professional lives. Our networks matter – a lot!What do we mean by a ‘Digital Footprint’?
We use our social networks in all sorts of different, positive ways. Through them we:- reach out to and share with others
- find jobs
- brand ourselves or our companies
- raise money for charity
- attract customers
- promote social justice or human rights
- warn about disasters or dramatic events
- form concerned, supportive communities
What are digital literacies?
Digital literacies are ALL the skills we need to take full advantage of the digital world. IT proficiency is just the starting point – we do need to know how to use a computer, navigate the Web, use software packages, operate a smartphone or tablet, use apps … and so on. But we also need:- Browsing to know how to effectively search for information, media, products or jobs….and then how to filter and store the results.
- Discerning critical reading skills and the ability to evaluate the reliability of online information.
- Presenting to use editing, media-capture, communication and presentation tools.
- Collaborating to collaborate and help others online and know how to participate effectively in online communities.
- Networking the ability to grow, manage and activate our networks effectively and reflect on our development or progress.
- Safeguarding to know how to present an appropriate online image and stay safe while doing so.
- Creating the ability to remix or repurpose digital material, or create and upload original material – such as by blogging or vlogging.
- Copyrighting to understand and respect the intellectual property rights of one’s and others’ creative work

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