We never know who we might learn from as we begin to network through social media, or “build” a personal learning network (PLN). “Building” implies a very intentional endeavour to me and I recognize the value in that. But using and participating in social media often brings unexpected connections and learning. It can also feel very messy and confusing, especially as we enter these spaces and interactions initially. It is easy to forget our own first experiences as we become more used to the “language” and subtle norms of social media, Twitter in particular. I am always thankful for reminders from people who have taken the step in more recently. I suspect that “newbies” don’t always articulate publicly how it can seem for them. This is why I appreciated a recent blog post by Vivian (@ChezVivian). I recently “met” Vivian in comments on a blog post, and from there we have interacted and conversed on Twitter. I know we can get excited about the connections we make, but Vivian’s post about social media rock stars gives good insight into how someone new to using social media might feel as they try to make sense of the experience:
There are some Social Media Rockstars that have a positive impact on me. They are the Social Media Rockstars that blog (even tweet) out of their vulnerabilities and share them openly. They are not Rockstars (though they might also have thousands of followers). They are the ROCK. They are the bedrock and the foundation of all that our PLNs are trying to accomplish. Upon their lessons, we can attempt to build something lasting upon. The “Rocks” prop me and others up. They tell us that we’re OK despite our weaknesses because they openly share their weaknesses. They inspire us to overcome our challenges, just as they are openly working towards overcoming theirs. Their transparency invites me to dialogue back as I don’t feel like an inferior wanna-be in front of them. To those “Rocks” in my PLN, I extend my gratitude and deepest heart-felt thanks and I know I speak for many other people.
Like Vivian, I didn’t expect to use social media to be a rock star or find rock stars, but I do think that over time we all find a network with a few of our own “rocks”. Vivian’s post ends with, “I won’t be your Social Media Rockstar. I don’t even want to be. I promise that I’ll be your Social Media Rock, though.”
So while there may or may not be social media rock stars, I think each of us benefit by having up a few good “rocks” along the way…
Sep 12, 2013 @ 10:02:09
Hi Sheila,
You’re one of my “rocks” 🙂 I can always be guaranteed some deep, patient, and reflective thinking coming from your direction. You’re a stabilizing force when the winds of education are pushing us to and fro and we’re not too sure what do with our values that some may be quick to call “traditional” (aka known as old-fashioned!).
I feel less alone with you, @bachtrac, and @JMitchinson keeping me company in Twittersphere (and blogsphere)
Thanks for the compliment of re-blogging my writing. 🙂
Cheers!
~Vivian
Sep 12, 2013 @ 22:49:03
Thank you for the kind feedback, Vivian! I often have uncertainty in these spheres…I am glad we bumped into each other. You bring honest and brave thoughts to many topics…and with grace and friendliness. Keep on…
Sep 13, 2013 @ 05:00:24
Sep 13, 2013 @ 12:36:02
I love this post. As someone who has been called a “rockstar,” I can say it makes me rather uncomfortable. I’ve learned from many folks over the years of being a connected educator, some with tens of thousands of followers, others with 25-50. I appreciate every one of those “rocks” who have helped me along the way. We need to stop worrying about Klout, reach, followers, and status, and start focusing on nurturing mutually beneficial relationships that help us all become better educators. Thanks for sharing!
Sep 15, 2013 @ 10:21:35
Thank you for adding your thoughts and perspective, Lyn. That is a great focus to have and keep in mind!
Sep 21, 2013 @ 09:33:46
As I’ve become more comfortable conversing in Twitter, I’m finding my true PLN. I’m happy to say Sheila and Vivian are part of that core foundation for me. To me, it’s about finding those people who challenge your thinking. I can do less with the “5 apps that…” posts. It’s the conversation that connects us. Thanks for being there for me!
Sep 21, 2013 @ 19:51:51
Thanks, Jane! I appreciate what I learn from you! It is great that we connected by chance and have continued these conversations over time, when we can or as needed!
My names is Fionna, and I am a ‘Tweeter’… | Re:eLearning
Sep 16, 2013 @ 19:28:19
Feb 11, 2015 @ 19:13:07