Service Learning

The following quote from servicelearning.org is an excellent summary of service learning. "Service-Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities." When we were first assigned this task, my impression was that this was a way to use our writing skills in the "real world". Upon researching service learning, I have come to the realization that service learning is so much more. Yes, you will get a chance to interact and use your new skill set. However, this project really gets you thinking about the community and organizations that support the very place that we live. It is easy to take from others and the community without thinking about giving back. It is also easy to dismiss those who have given so much to improve and shape our town. Without these individuals, we would not have many of the places and services we all take for granite. Think about that park you like to take walks in, then take a minute to be grateful to the person who gave the property to the town so all could enjoy the land. I hope to find a partner that supports culture or the arts. I know there are organizations that serve basic needs to the people. The arts and culture are often overlooked. These organizations play a large role in the developement of people as well. I hope that I can find a need to service for one of these groups.

Social Networking

Social networking via the Internet has become all the rage. People post everything and anything. Some of the well-known sites are Facebook, Myspace, twitter, and LinkedIn. LinkedIn is a professional networking site. The others are mostly social. These sites are an excellent means of keeping in touch with and meeting others. There are also some points to be considered before you go post crazy! Keep in mind that many potential employers check out applicants on the web. Employers have not selected individuals for positions based on Internet postings. Posting those wild party pictures may cost you a job opportunity in the future. Do not post anything that you would not be comfortable showing your family or the press for that matter. Professional sites offer an excellent forum for job hunting and connecting with other professionals in your field.

Managing Your Online Idenity

This section regarding online identity caused me to rethink my opinion on social networking via the Internet. Before this class, I really did not see a benefit in social networking for me. After reading the articles posted in Diigo, I have a new found interest in social networking on the Internet. I can see the benefit of this new technology. This has also been a wake up call to me not to be so quick to dismiss new technology and how it can work for me. Along with the positives, come some beware of items. Keeping a professional well crafted image on both personal and professional networks is key. Remembering that information can be viewed by anyone is also important to keep in mind when blogging and posting pictures. Making sure security settings are set properly will also protect your information. Do not rely too much on security settings. Strive to maintain a professional image. When I Googled my name, thankfully, nothing questionable came up. I did not realize that others with the name of Sally Pryor existed - imagine that! Having others with the same name means I will have to work hard at branding myself. I need to craft an image so prospective employers will know which one is me. I have joined LinkedIn. I am looking forward to polishing my image on that site. LinkedIn opens a new venue for professional contacts.