PLE Reflection (Week 2)

Scarpelli, R. (CC) 2016.

The diagram above depicts my personal learning environment. While creating my PLE I decided to focus on the digital tools that I use every single day and found that they fall into four main categories - social media, entertainment, work and school related. I also found that there was a lot of overlap among the categories (i.e. I use Microsoft applications at both school and work) and that many of the tools are dual purpose. For example, LinkedIn is known as a social media platform however I chose to categorize it under work because I believe that it aids in my professional development. Other social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter can also be used for work related purposes as many professional recruiters have begun utilizing social media.

The three processes for creating an effective PLE

1. Personal: First envision yourself 5-10 years from now. Who or where do you want to be?

Five to ten years from now I want to have a my Certified Professional Accounting designation and continuing on a successful career in business. Seeing as I am close to graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Accounting Co-op, and have already started accumulating professional hours to go towards my designation I believe that I am well on my way to accomplishing these goals.

2. Learning: In order to get from where you are now to where you want to be you have to learn things. Identify the categories of tools that support this learning. 

Firstly, in order to accomplish my personal goals I have to successfully complete my education. The digital tools in my school related category will support the success of my university education. Secondly, I will have to continue to pursue a career in the field of accounting. The digital tools in my work related category will support my continued professional development. LinkedIn is a useful networking resource which I will continue to use post graduation in order to remain aware of new career opportunities. I will also look to improve my technical skills using Microsoft and Adobe software.

3. Environment: Learning is a product of your environment. you can adapt your environment to learn better, without adding effort. Identify ways you can change the environment around you to better meet your learning needs. 

A simple way to change my environment and become more productive is to filter the information I receive on social media. On social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram and I can chose to follow other accounts which I find positive and inspiring, and that are business related. This will help to keep me in the right state of mind for achieving my personal goals and remaining productive in my every day life.