Category: edci338blog

PLN in Practice: Instagram and TikTok 

Instagram and TikTok are two of my favourite tools for fast, visual learning. I follow several teacher accounts that post:

• Engaging classroom games and PE game

The Claw Primary PE game explained in 30 seconds.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kev Weir | PE and Coaching (@just.playsports)

• Behaviour management strategies 

Classroom managment strategy using refocus and celebration board.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Karen | Classroom Management Tools (@theclassroomcues)

• Quick tips on UDL-aligned lesson planning

Instagram post below on UDL tips:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DLVe9Biykcr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=aHNuc3d0dDR0ZHVz

What I love about these platforms is the bite-sized format, whether it’s a post, a 30-second reel, or a TikTok video. This kind of content sparks new ideas I can apply in my UVic BEd courses or during my practicum placements.

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Universal Design for Learning 

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If we look at inclusion as a concept of teaching to the diversity of all, rather than just a special education initiative, we can bridge this gap. We are diverse.”

Shelley Moore 

This quote highlights that inclusion isn’t about uniformity but about appreciating our differences. Moore (2016), in One Without the Other: Stories of Unity Through Diversity and Inclusion, talks about inclusion involving recognizing and embracing individual distinctions. The image below demonstrates this idea: each dot inside the circle is unique, with its own pattern or texture, yet all are part of the same community. By acknowledging and valuing our differences, we foster unity rather than division through diversity.

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UDL Principles and Inclusive Digital Learning Spaces

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) supports the same goal of fostering inclusivity. When we apply UDL principles to both teaching and our digital environments, we make learning and professional development more accessible and equitable.

• Multiple Means of Engagement: I follow creators who share learning in different formats infographics, reels, threads, and podcasts. This keeps me engaged and supports different learning preferences.
• Multiple Means of Representation: I value PLN members who present ideas in culturally responsive ways, use visual supports, or share multilingual content. This mirrors how I want to represent knowledge for students using diverse, inclusive materials.
• Multiple Means of Action & Expression: Within my PLN, I contribute by posting visuals, commenting, resources, and using blogs to reflect.

Being aware of UDL principles as I engage in digital learning spaces helps me create content that is inclusive and authentically represents who I am.

WHAT IS DIGITAL IDENTITY?

In the video, Eric Stoller discusses what Digital Identity is. He explains that it’s our online footprint, everything you post, share, how you interact online, and how you use digital tools. My online presence encompasses various platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, TikTok, LinkedIn, personal websites, and more. To be honest, I never really thought of it as my identity, but it is, in fact, who I am. I include posts about loved ones, my hobbies, food, my career, accomplishments, and more.

PERSONAL DIGITAL IDENTITY VS. PERSONAL IDENTITY

In this module, we examined digital identity, personalized learning, and the influence of our digital footprint. One key point for me is recognizing the importance of managing personal and professional digital identities separately.

My professional digital identity is shaped by platforms like LinkedIn, where I showcase skills, connect with colleagues, and develop a career-focused presence. This space is intentional; it’s like my resume in action. I use it to update my resume, connect with other employers and professionals, and to help me find jobs or for others to find me.

In contrast, my personal digital identity is present on platforms like Instagram, where I share hobbies such as hiking, travelling, and spending time with friends and family. Although it’s personal, I stay mindful that future employers might see it. That’s why I make sure all posts reflect positivity and who I want to be perceived as an individual.

To maintain boundaries and align with my goals, I follow these steps:

• Keep separate accounts for personal and professional purposes.
• Set personal accounts to private and carefully manage my friend list.
• Think before posting: “Would my grandma or a future employer approve?”
• Share content that represents the values I want linked to my name online.

Balancing these identities helps me control how I am perceived in both social and professional contexts. 

Life long learning is crucial

ERIC STROLLER

Social media reveals if you have a passion for lifelong learning. You can see who is growing and adapting and who is not through social media. For example, as a future teacher, you might see me most often on LinkedIn discussing inclusive education or new technology tools for teachers. This shows my growth and keeping myself relevant in the digital professional world.