personalized learning network

How diverse is your PLN?

My current PLN has multiple components. There are people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Most of us have the same interests, and we got to know each other because of the same interests. But on the contrary, we are in different cultures and regions, which leads to the fact that everyone has a different point of view on one thing. We can work together to build a stronger relationship, and I can get a sense of what others are thinking. The interaction and participation of each individual as a learner are embodied in the PLN.

Are you learning from a variety of diverse voices and are you expanding your understanding of the views of others?

Choosing to learn from different voices in PLN is a good way to learn. I usually express my opinions after listening to others’ voices, which helps me to think and learn more comprehensively. I also learn a lot from other people’s opinions. I believe that no matter what kind of status I am, teacher, leader, group leader or group member, everyone should not listen to others’ views because of their status. Respecting the opinions of others, I think, is an important step to blending in with the crowd. When we communicate with others, we can accumulate experiences that we may not experience in our lifetime. As we learn more, we become more confident in expressing our opinions to others.

What is a learning outcome of your PLN and how are you ensuring your exposure to diversity and inclusion?

My learning outcome in PLN is to listen to others to learn what others understand, express all my opinions honestly, and make progress in mutual communication. When I learn some theoretical knowledge, I am like an interviewer, just absorbing their knowledge, not applying it to practical experience. For example, if I major in economics, all I can do is finish my homework and exams, but if I really work in a bank, I think I may not be able to finish the job, this knowledge is just an empty shell for me. Therefore, I often ask my mother about her knowledge in the bank, she is a clerk in the bank, she is a correct teacher, and she will tell me what she is going through. I like to hear her point of view, which is something my teacher can’t teach me in class. I will also think from more angles and broaden my thinking, which is the best embodiment of inclusiveness and diversity.