Technology Blog #1: Developing a Connected Learning Model

 

Chapter 2 of The Connected Educator by Sheryl Nussbaum-Beach provides insight on learning and professional grow the strongest when working with others rather than alone. She claims that professionals grow while working with others and by continuing to learn over time. People sharing different ideas or experiences is very helpful in developing an adequate space to learn and grow. Something that can assist with creating this is technology because it expands the amount of time people can learn and connect with. 

She also provides the main ways that people can stay connected while learning. Professional Learning Communities work together to enhance themselves. They work in small groups regularly in order to help improve their skills. Personal Learning Networks are comprised of people and resources chosen by individuals to assist their learning, which are often online. Communities of Practice are people who share interests based off of career and learn from one another over periods of time. All three of these methods are used to create common spaces to build connections while learning. 

My future is going to be in the criminal justice field. These professionals are likely to stay up-to-date with laws, societal changes or issues, the current news, and similar topics. A personal learning network for criminal justice professionals is definitely something I would consider important. I think having a space to learn from others that must stay up to date with the same topics is very helpful. This is something that could improve knowledge, help experience, and maybe even assist in better decision making. Staying connected with other individuals is an important process for growth and learning.