Neuro Networked

In Personal Learning Networks (PLNs), resources come in all shapes and sizes—websites, text documents, photos, videos, and even contact info. This diversity ensures you’ll find what you need, no matter your interests. The real power of a PLN lies in its members. Regular communication, engaging discussions, and sharing resources keep the network dynamic and collaborative. From exchanging tips to mentoring and working on projects together, members of all skill levels contribute to a vibrant learning environment. Experts within PLNs are particularly valuable, providing guidance and insights in an informal setting. They help others enhance their understanding and skills. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your expertise, your PLN is there to support you every step of the way.

Defining a Personal Learning Network (PLN) can be a bit like trying to describe a general favorite playlist—everyone’s is different. Whether you’re interested in baking, tech, or history, there’s a PLN tailored just for you. Think of a PLN as a friendly group of experts and enthusiasts who are ready to share advice, tools, and opportunities. Unlike traditional classrooms with structured lessons, PLNs offer a more relaxed, informal personalized approach to learning. In a PLN, you get to steer your own learning journey. So, if you’re keen to master a new skill or explore a passion, your PLN is there to support you. Dive in and enjoy the journey! 🚀📚

 So, what does the digital divide mean for instructional designers or those creating digital learning materials? First and foremost, it means considering internet, computer, and smartphone access. When designing learning for global audiences, accessibility should be a top priority. Knowing that some parts of the world lack adequate internet access, we must consider the reach of our global learning initiatives. In areas where internet access is low, instructional designers should explore alternative and accessible learning materials. For instance, downloadable content or offline resources can bridge the gap. To address gender disparities in technology access, designers can create learning materials with a gender-neutral tone, making the content inviting for all genders. This small change can have a big impact on inclusivity. To combat age-related differences in technology use, instructional designers can simplify and make technology components intuitive. This ensures that learners of al

The digital division doesn’t stop at geographical location. Oh no, it extends to age, gender, and education across the globe, too. Just when you thought it was safe to assume everyone was equally obsessed with cat videos and viral dances, think again! Let’s talk age first. Across the globe, 18-36 year-olds are more likely to use the internet than their older counterparts. So, if you see Grandma struggling with emojis, give her a break—she's still mastering the fine art of text messaging! In many less developed countries, there’s a staggering 50% gap between the younger and older generations. It's like the internet is a secret club for the young and hip, and seniors need a special invite (or at least a patient grandchild). Education is another dividing factor in internet use. Those with more education are more likely to be online, browsing the web, and Googling the answers to life's burning questions. It’s almost as if the internet is a reward for enduring years of school—co

Today, we turn our attention to the fascinating world of social media use across the globe. One would think that social media usage is consistent no matter where you are geographically, but that’s far from the case. Despite the rise of smartphone usage, the world remains digitally divided. Can you even imagine that? Here I am thinking that the internet, smart phones, and social media are found in every hand in the world! Here’s the scoop: people in wealthier countries have higher rates of internet and smartphone ownership. While someone in Silicon Valley might be live-tweeting their every meal, someone in a remote village might be lucky to get a signal strong enough to send a single text. It's like comparing a high-speed race car to a horse and buggy in the digital age. So next time you're scrolling through your feed, just remember: not everyone is posting selfies from a café with ultra-fast Wi-Fi. 

Hey there, Neuro-Networked Community! We’ve covered why a web presence is crucial and the risks of not having one. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to the fun part: building your digital kingdom! Start simple: a LinkedIn account is your new best friend. Think of it as your professional playground where you can showcase your skills and connect with industry bigwigs. Next, we already covered creating your personal website? Did you do it yet? Platforms like Wix, Weebly, and WordPress make it easy-peasy. I created mine on Go Daddy! Fill it with your resume, projects, and even a blog where you share insights and resources. Want more? Engage in social networking, share resources, and optimize for search engines. Imagine hiring managers googling you and finding a treasure trove of your achievements. So, get out there, share your brilliance, and watch as your web presence opens doors you never knew existed. Happy web weaving!