Chapter 4: Digital

Beyond social media, technology encompasses “digital learning tools and platforms in which students, faculty, and administrators can share and critically examine leadership theories and identities” (Ahlquist & Endersby, 2017, p. 5). As the role of technology in learning continues to expand, it is important for educators to embrace technology in their work and consider digital identity development (Ahlquist, 2016). Digital identity development adds a layer as both students and educators negotiate how they show up in online environments (Ahlquist, 2016; Gordon Brown, 2016). Active learning extends to digital spaces. Guthrie and Meriwether (2018) proposed a digital leadership engagement strategy to support mentoring, coaching, and advising students. Through clear and consistent engagement, using tools to manage content, and capturing measurable outcomes, educators can engage students in online spaces to support a sense of belonging (Guthrie & Meriwether, 2018). As technology expands, leadership educators should consider how to engage students in the digital sphere in making meaning of their leadership experiences, as well as supporting all students in developing technology competencies.