Journal 6: “Grow Your Personal Learning Network” (NETS 5)

Warlick, D. (2009). Grow your personal learning network. Learning and Leading, 36(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-march-april-2009.aspx

Personal Learning Networks (PLNs) are changing the way we learn about the world. This article discusses the new ways in which we, as educators, are learning information today. In the past, we would rely on our families, colleagues, newspapers, books, television, and radio to seek and gather our information. In today’s technologically advanced society, we can use the internet to break down the geographical barriers of finding information using our PLNs. The author discuss the three main types of PLNs. The first type is instant connections we make over the Internet using tools such as Skype. This type of connection allows us to communicate with one another during real time. The second type of connection would be made in “nearly now” time. This means the communication we make is not necessarily made in real time but very close to real time using tools such as Wiki, Google Docs, or group discussion boards. This type of PLN, the author notes, allows people to collaborate together regardless of their schedule, or geographical time difference. The third type of PLN the author mentions is not a PLN that connects us to one another, but one that connects us to information using tools such as Diigo (a website bookmarking tool). Having this type of PLN allows the users to gather specific information and have that information, and all new information relating to the topic, delivered directly to them as oppose to the user having to search for the new information themselves. This article states that creating a PLN is important as an educator to foster our desire for lifelong learning.

Question 1: How can teachers use their PLNs to relate to their students directly?

                Having a PLN as an educator allows you to gather information that you can use in the classroom. For example, you can use your PLN to get ideas for lesson plans to use, you can gather information on classroom management techniques or get ideas on classroom activities. There is much information you can access using your PLN that will enhance a student’s learning experience. Also, by creating a PLN as an educator you are utilizing Internet tools and social networking sites in a way that fosters education and learning. By experiencing this, you are modeling for your student’s ways in which they can take learning into their own hands.

Question 2: Are there any negatives aspects to creating a PLN?

                Because we are responsible for creating our own PLNs, it is common for us to gather information on a limited perspective. We will most likely look up information that aligns with our own opinions and beliefs, and communicate and make connections with those who think in the same way we do. It is important that we examine perspectives and communicate with those who may have a different way of viewing things because that is how we become more knowledgeable. As a learner, it is important to not shy away from those who may have a different perspective than our own.