As mentioned in my other blogs, my favourite social media on my PLN is Instagram. Not only do I use it now, but I could use it for my professional development post-course as an Elementary teacher.
Instagram allows users to create a private account, which I could make so the students can create their accounts and follow me on it, creating a virtual classroom. However, the only issue is that people can access and see who is following my account, which could risk my student’s privacy. Though if I were to use this option, I would ensure students do not use their real names nor post pictures of themselves and that they would privately give me their username
Another possible option that I would most likely use would be, using Instagram as a public learning portal. In other words, I would post content with extra tips, for example, a detailed video of how to do the math. That way, no one has to follow me, ensuring I do not expose my student’s privacy. To continue enhancing my students’ safety, I would also turn the commenting off (which Instagram also offers in their settings). That way, if students need more help, they can come directly to me or Direct message me to meet and go further with my explanation. Not only will my students be able to see this, but any other students in the n network society needing help can also view my content.
Not only is my goal to provide a PLN with privacy precautionaries, but also to provide a PLN that is accessible to anyone at any teI think it. It is an open and interactive social media that will make a successful PLN for my future career as a teacher.