Professional Learning Networks (PLNs)
PLNs
PLNs are extended networks for all forms of professionals to find coaching opportunities. Research done by Lee (2017) notes that coaching for educators yields meaningful results while traditional professional development fails to add value. The results are not surprising as teachers have collaborated in a coaching manner well before the introduction of the internet.
When using a PLN, professionals are in charge of their professional development. This means they can explore what they need at the best time in the ways they enjoy. They are not beholden to the administration to provide growth opportunities that may be out of touch, outdated, or unhelpful.
With the advent of the internet, new professional tools seem to pop up every day. It is impossible for an individual to find, try, and asses every tool created. PLNs allow professionals to share their findings and, as a group, determine under what conditions specific tools are helpful.
Many teachers struggle with course content. PLNs allow teachers to share worksheets, handouts, and other educational tools that are high quality in content. Other members of the PLN can make modifications to increase ease of use or visual appeal. Instead of one teacher needing every skill to make high-quality learning material, teams of teachers can work together to make assets that can benefit multiple classrooms.
Continued Education
A good teacher is a lifelong learner. Given how students are connected to learning materials through YouTube and social media, subject-specific teachers are in an uphill battle in their classrooms. Even static topic like mathematics has huge breakthroughs in educational methods regularly. Teachers that fall behind fail to capture their student’s attention.