A New Way to Think About Learning

Before this module, I thought I had a decent idea of what a Personal Learning Network (PLN) was. I assumed it was just the people I follow on Instagram, LinkedIn, or maybe a few creators on YouTube.
But Module 3 on PLN dynamics and inclusivity completely changed my perspective.

A PLN isn’t just a list of followers or people I admire. It’s about how I engage, who I choose to amplify, and what kind of space I help create. In a weird way, it reminded me that I’m not just scrolling through content, I’m actively shaping the tone and values of the digital learning environments I’m part of.

It’s Not Just Diversity—It’s Inclusion

One of the most powerful slides from the Module 3 PowerPoint was about the difference between diversity and inclusion. It really stuck with me that just having people from different backgrounds isn’t enough if I’m not creating space for their voices to actually be heard.

That made me reflect on my own habits. Sometimes I follow people with different perspectives, but I stay silent. I’m more of a “visitor” than a “resident” in their space, to use the Visitors and Residents model we discussed. Moving forward, I want to shift from passive scrolling to more intentional engagement, liking, commenting, sharing, and crediting voices that often get overlooked.

PLNs Are Shaped by Intentional Choices

We all get caught in algorithmic bubbles sometimes. But one of my biggest takeaways from this module is that if I don’t shape my PLN, the algorithm will. I don’t want to just keep seeing content that reinforces what I already believe. I want to be challenged, to grow, and to connect with people who think differently than I do.

To do that, I need to:
– Regularly audit who I follow and why
– Look for underrepresented voices in my field
– Create a safe and respectful space where people feel heard

🎥 Embedded Video: How to Build a PLN and Become a Connected Educator

This short video (under 3 minutes) features educators discussing how they built their own PLNs and the impact of being a connected educator. I picked it because it’s informative and practical, perfect for grounding the blog post in a relatable, real-world voice.

Instagram Inspiration: Educating to “Digital Citizenship”

This public post from Reggio Children highlights the importance of teaching digital citizenship as integral to daily life, offline and online, echoing Module 3’s focus on identity, values, and inclusion in digital spaces. 

How I’m Going to Apply This

Over the next few weeks, I plan to:
1. Follow at least 3 new educators or creators with perspectives outside my discipline or culture
2. Comment meaningfully on content I value (not just “like” and move on)
3. Add sources or give credit when I share something, even in casual platforms like Instagram stories

These small changes feel more doable than overhauling my entire digital life, and they still have an impact.

Final Thought

This module reminded me that I’m not just a learner, I’m also a co-creator of the spaces I learn in. PLNs are personal, powerful, and dynamic. But they only work when we put in the effort to make them inclusive, reflective, and intentional.

Let me know, how do you shape your PLN? Are you more of a visitor or a resident? 👀