Networked professional learning: relating the formal and the informal | Vaessen | Front... - 3 views
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These informal networks help teachers to deal with the increasing complexity of their work
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In spite of the proven importance of informal networks, professional development of teachers is almost invariably approached in a largely formal manner
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What are the formal and informal mechanisms underlying networked professional learning, related to professional development, autonomy and management? · How can networked learning be positioned in the most optimal way?
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When personal responsibility takes the form of accountability toward control from superiors or school inspection, spontaneous learning processes can be impeded
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Learning mechanisms: what we have seen in the literature indicates that networked learning is a natural activity through which professionals develop their expertise, in addition to participating in formal learning procedures. This form of professional development is a continuous process. Networked learning is often directly related to work practices and promoting it has proven to be effective to enhance the learning process.
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Issues of trust, freedom of choice, and willingness to share and connect are intrinsically motivated
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This study delves into the formal and informal aspects of networks. It highlights the need for informal in a teachers' complex job, but the struggles with qualifying/managing the occurrence. It also speaks to administrations delicate roll as a "gate-keeper" or "barrier". Interesting read.
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Nice find Cassie. While the study is lengthy to read it is full of excellent information. I believe the ladder half of the text (discussion and key points sections) is where the most valuable information lies. I always appreciative objectivity and honesty, and the authors of this study were clear that networks aren't for everyone. Everyone is a unique and distinct learner so to blanket the idea of a network as something that is a "must" for effective professional development wouldn't be fair. Yet, it does acknowledge that from a team initiative perspective, networks are a blank canvas and platform for maintaining open communication so all parties involved grow.