During the past 2 years Social Networking via the web has become mainstream, through sites like MySpace, LinkedIn, Orkut and Hyves. And while some initial criticism that these sites were for kids or people in desperate need for friends, online social networking has become a billion dollar industry from which individuals and corporations collect valuable information. Furthermore the hospitality industry is increasingly made aware of the effects of social networking via sites like TripAdvisor and IgoUgo.

But let's not forget, networking in general has long been seen as a crucial component for job advancement and generating new business. In some cultures this is so pronounced that one simply can not expect to find an open door without the right ‘connections'.

For these reasons it is important that graduates from the IHM program understand the importance of networking to be successful in the future.

Objectives

The Future Networking Module is designed to make students aware that (virtual) networking increases their probability of achieving their professional objectives through:

• Networking with fellow students and alumni via the Alumni website.

• Critically examining a broad range of networks, including online networks, communities and forums.
• Planning their network to help open doors and compensate for personal deficiencies.
• Research how to enhance the current Alumni site and implement these enhancements.

Methodology

The module is set up with minimal face time with the instructor as most of the interaction will occur through virtual discussions via the alumni website. This is to foster the hands on or experiential learning of computer aided networking. Students will have a choice to read one of the two required textbooks; no fewer than 3 students must read each book. The students are then expected to discuss the books amongst themselves in person, or via the alumni site. While one of the textbooks is geared toward learning the practical skills needed to be able to network successfully, the other has a more futuristic or philosophical approach to networking. It should lead to interesting discussions, and it will illustrate the knowledge sharing value of networks.

Because most of the discussion and interaction will occur via the alumni website, the students will be able to evaluate the current site and suggest improvements to make the site more valuable. Some of the suggested improvements will then need to be implemented by the students which will require them to tap into the knowledge available within the networks of the open source software. This exposure to the open source community will teach students how effective these types of knowledge sharing networks can be and can serve as a model for knowledge sharing / continues learning.

Click here to follow along with what is happing during this module.

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