Why Building Professional Learning Networks is Important
Creating a professional learning network (PLN) is connecting with individuals or groups of people in order to learn from or contribute to others. While professional learning used to be done face-to-face in workshops, conferences, and collaboration at the workplace, the affordance of technology through social media now allows educators and other professionals to connect with others online. Building a PLN is important especially when the world is ever changing and different kinds of skills are required.
The process of building a PLN recognises that we are part of a larger system and that people are each fearfully and wonderfully made by God (English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Ps. 139:14b). Thus, we seek to learn from one another because each person has a unique experiences, expertise, knowledge, ideas, insights and skills to contribute to the discussion. In order to stay relevant, we need to learn from other people.
 |
| Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik |
Colossians 3:23 says "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men" (English Standard Version Bible, 2016). As educators, continuous learning and growing is part of our work. Ultimately, even as we connect with other people by expanding our professional network, and taking the time to share, we bring life into classrooms when we see students connected, engaged, and prepared for the world ahead.
 |
| Image by liuzishan on Freepik |
As Christian educators, we need to be in the world, but not of the world. How do we do that? We do the important work of engaging students and educating minds using culturally relevant examples. We share best practices with others so that students are excited to learn and be willing to ask big questions. When we are able to get students to think about their life's purpose through their learning, help them learn to solve problems, think critically, and know who is the source of all knowledge, then we are fulfilling the Great Commission - "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." (English Standard Version Bible, 2016, Matt. 18:19).
References
English Standard Version Bible. (2016). Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Bibles.
Hi Angel! One thing that is so great about technology is that it takes things a step further when it comes to networking. Going to in person conferences, workshops, and events are still great ways to network and meet people in real life, but in the past it would be harder to stay connected with the people you met. Now with technology, you not only build connections in person, but you can keep those up with the same people online. I love how you mentioned that whatever we do we should work at it with our whole heart for the Lord, and that as educators we are called to grow and continue learning in our content areas. This is so important as not just educators, but as Christians. As Christians we are called to spend time in God's Word, to learn more about Him, and continually grow in Him. Both as Christians and educators we are called to grow.
ReplyDeleteHI Angel, your point on relevancy was well taken. In a world where technology is continuously changing, updating and creating new communication methods, being relevant is so necessary. You make a good case for the importance of a healthy PLN as vital to growing and learning from each other.
ReplyDelete