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Weaving the fabric of professional development

In the 21st century using technology

By Patricia Chesbro
February 2010
Networked learning supported by 21-century technology is reweaving the fabric of how educators acquire and create new knowledge. At the Alaska Educational Innovations Network (AEIN), we believe this has the potential to change how a profession looks at professional development. No longer will exchange of ideas be limited by time, distance, and local community. We have learned that using technology to support networks around a shared purpose enhances professional development and provides fertile ground for professional learning communities. Carefully selected technological tools, in conjunction with skilled human facilitation, allow for diverse voices to emerge in a climate of trust and respect. Educators have access to the expertise that lies within a larger group. More importantly, the group’s combined wisdom creates new knowledge that both strengthens

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References

Anklam, P. (2007). Net work: A practical guide to creating and sustaining networks at work and in the world. Burlington, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Jackson, D. & Temperley, J. (2007). From professional learning community to networked learning community. In L. Stoll & K.S. Louis, Professional learning communities: Divergence, depth & dilemmas (pp. 45-62). Berkshire: Open University Press.

Palmer, P.J. (1998). The courage to teach: Exploring the inner landscape of a teacher’s life. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Wenger, E. (2006, June). Communities of practice: A brief introduction. Available at www.ewenger.com/theory/index.htm.


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Patricia Chesbro (afprc@uaa.alaska.edu) is director of the Alaska Educational Innovations Network. Nancy Boxler (annjb1@uaa.alaska.edu) is assistant director.


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