What is a PLN?

Why you should begin your own PLN —Ashley Azzopardi (@ashleyazzopardi)The word “PLN” stands for “Personal Learning Network Links to an external site.”, and it has its origins in connectivism theory Links to an external site. (Siemens, G. & Downes, S., 2005).

Let’s take this a little further…

The Personal:

Having a PLN is about making connections and building personal relationships with teachers, school administrators, university professors, and experts around the world. No matter where you are in the world, there’s always someone online available to answer questions, share their expertise, and simply chat about what’s happening in their lives and classrooms.

The Learning:

Having a PLN is about sharing ideas and resources, collaboration, and learning. We may share our learning, ideas and expertise in different ways; using different media and tools, but the essence is the same: the PLN is simply the best professional development you will ever participate in – and it’s available 24/7.

The Network:

The defining feature of the PLN is that it is a global learning network, enabling people to tap into and share diverse, global perspectives on teaching strategies, educational issues, and technologies. If takes time and effort to build these connections, but it’s well worth the effort.

 

CC-BY-NC-SA icon.png This content is adapted from the Edublogs Teacher blogs and is co-written by Kathleen Morris Links to an external site..  Image credit: Why you should begin your own PLN by Ashley Azzopardi (@ashleyazzopardi)