RSA4: Professional Learning Networks Designed for Teacher Learning

A professional learning network (PLN) is a system designed to create interpersonal connections and develop resources that support informal learning by the user (Trust, 2012).  Learning can also take place through resource sharing and feedback by the membership.  Simply putting digital tools together in one place does not ensure learning, as users must be active in process.  Luckily, users can explore online at their own pace and take ownership of the possibilities created with a PLN.  

The past four years alone have seen the launch of thousands of personalized education sites that allow threaded commenting, immediate feedback on methodologies, and professional development through videos, blogs, podcasts, webinars, and slide shows (Flanigan, 2000). While many websites and programs offer different content, teachers should start off small and work toward using more challenging tools. Figuring out the social norms for the activity spaces and learning to use the new tools can be overwhelming for a teacher (Flanigan, 2000). Even though resources draw participants in, very little is accomplished until teachers become comfortable with the digital tools (Lightle, 2010).  

             With access to thousands of ideas and resources available at the click of a mouse, educators find themselves navigating webpages to find ideas and answers they may have previously waited days for.  Both students and teachers find themselves turning to the Internet to find a solution to a problem, even when other people are present.  Often times, the speed and accuracy of a PLN trumps face-to-face communication as we become more reliant on instant gratification.  PLN’s now play a role in staff development as districts are using them to gather staff resources, transition to common core standards and even save money by creating a grassroots approach to professional development (Flanigan, 2000). Regardless of their intentions, PLN’s are arguably one of the hottest topics in the field of education today.

Flanigan, R. L. (2012). Professional Learning Networks Taking Off. Education Digest: Essential Readings Condensed For Quick Review, 77(7), 42-45.

Lightle, K. (2010). Using social media to building an online professional learning network of middle level educators. Knowledge Quest, 39(2), 48-53.

Trust, T. (2012). Professional Learning Networks Designed for Teacher Learning. Journal Of Digital Learning In Teacher Education, 28(4), 133-138.