During class this week, guest speaker Jesse Miller discussed a multitude of topics pertaining to technology, the internet, and more specifically, social media. He dove into discussions regarding privacy, not only for students, but also for educators. Throughout the lesson, my brain was circling around and around with the question of how do I protect myself now from future prodding into my social media presence.

While I do not agree with some of the pre-conceived notions and unspoken rules regarding educators on social media, it is an asset to know about them at this point in my life, so I can make appropriate adjustments now rather than later. Following the class, I did a deep dive search on the internet trying to see what would come up when searching my name and usernames I have used in the past. Besides this blog, nothing seemed to come up, only a singer and a couple of her songs, which is definitely not me. Despite feeling secure and knowing that there shouldn’t be anything damaging on the internet about me, I continued to search for resources that would help make it more clear what is expected of my social media as a future teacher. This resource lists 10 Do’s and Don’ts of using social media in a way that will help your career as opposed to hurting it. Further, a post made by the Ontario College of Teachers discusses a wide array of topics pertaining to social media use by teachers, such as “private vs professional, professional vulnerability, and criminal and civil law implications”. As this resource was created by a Canadian Teaching regulator, I feel secure in assuming that most of the rules and regulations would apply similarly in British Columbia.

Maintaining Professionalism – Use of Electronic Communication and Social Media – Updated – Professional Advisory | Ontario College of Teachers (oct.ca)

Upon reflection of this weeks class, I feel thankful that this topic was brought to our attention. Not because I fear there is something bad connected to my name on the internet, but because building a professional profile that others will judge me upon should start as early as possible. By ensuring I am following guidelines to remain professional, I can safeguard myself for any future internet sleuthing that may occur.