• How has your thinking about inclusion and PLN evolved?

I initially thought of inclusion as simply including all kinds of people. However, the example of the traditional education model in this week’s reading has reshaped my understanding of this concept. Inclusion goes beyond merely bringing different individuals into the same space; it involves treating every person with equality, from the bottom of the heart, and is free from stereotypes or labels. It is a space where everyone can be accepted and respected. Also, after listening to the podcast, for the first time I am vividly aware of the strengths and power a PLN can bring to individuals, especially under the circumstances where face-to-face interactions are challenging to realize. The followers of a social media are not just a random number, but rather they can form a virtual community composed of friends, peers or colleagues. Within this community information is shared and discussed. I believe this is one of the crucial purposes a personal learning network serves.

  • How can social media play a role in helping you establish messaging and themes that are inclusive and diverse?

In a professional setting such as university, social media can play a significant role in establishing messaging and themes that are inclusive and diverse. First, social media can provide platforms like forums, blog posts or other space that allow students to openly and respectfully discuss diversity, inclusion and equity. It serves as an essential channel to help the underrepresented voices to be heard. Second, it is beneficial for social media like Instagram or Facebook to collaborate with student organizations and clubs to hold inclusive activities and programs that foster relationships among students from different groups. Third, social media need to monitor users’ feedback and engagement on a regular basis to ensure a healthy online environment and to protect users from potentially harmful messages and events held on it. Implementing and enforcing policies are also necessary to regulate and promote inclusion and diversity.