Digital platforms are providing students with a more advanced and efficient way to conduct their professional and academic work. In my opinion, there are two major types of digital platforms that students currently use to enhance their professional network. The first type includes popular social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Linkedln. These platforms allow people to connect, discuss and interact with peers and professionals. The second type of digital platforms is comparatively more formal and academic, encompassing university’s databases, Google Scholar and various professional websites related to specific fields of study. In terms of expanding their professional learning network, students could utilize various forms of online interactions these platforms offer, such as online forums and virtual conferences or seminars. Establishing a personal profile to include things like area of interest and learning goals could be helpful to attract professionals from the same field. In addition, I believe it is significant to take part in university co-op programs or to apply for professionally related positions. These experiences could contribute to building a solid foundation for the development of personal and informational networks.

Data privacy and security both limit and promote a PLN primarily by imposing  restrictions on access to certain websites. On one hand, it poses a challenge since most academic and scholarly resources require the authorization from specific institutions. This limitation makes it difficult for individuals without an institutional background, but who are eager to learn from professional information, to acquire these resources. This might potentially hinder the building of a strong personal learning network due to the lack of support from these valuable authoritative materials. On the other hand, the restriction protects the ownership and copyright of the resources, as well as creates a safe environment in which individuals can freely share and exchange their ideas.

In building my network, I can create a digital reputation by first presenting the public a positive image of myself through a comprehensive profile. This profile should contain information regarding to my profession, past learning experiences and strengths. The quality of content within a personal learning network is an important aspect to build a robust digital reputation. Second, it is beneficial to engage in online conversations. Exchanging ideas with others and commenting on various posts with a positive attitude constitute the footprints of a digital identity. Meanwhile, this approach helps maintain constant connections with relevant peers, which then allows for the continuous gain of impressions and comments from others. The interpersonal relationship need to be well developed so that recommendations from professionals can be of great help in crucial times. If I applied for a job with an employer and they assessed my social media presence via my digital identity, the employer might have a relatively positive impression on me for the informative content my digital identity provides with. However, they would probably not be certain about whether to accept my application because they do not know my personal qualities. I have posted very little regarding to my personal life on social media. Also, I have not yet created something that would arouse the employer’s particular attention and make myself stand out among all the applicants. Thus, I think the employer is not very likely to accept my application.