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Moving beyond silos: professional learning networks in higher education
ARTICLE

, University of Massachusetts Amherst, United States ; , Elon University, United States ; , University of North Texas, United States

Internet and Higher Education Volume 35, Number 1, ISSN 1096-7516 Publisher: Elsevier Ltd

Abstract

Many faculty and staff in higher education have turned to digitally-enhanced professional learning networks (PLNs) as a means for situated learning that can help them grow in their various professional responsibilities. However, there is scant research on what these PLNs mean to the professional lives of higher educators. We report findings of a qualitative study that investigated participants' perspectives on their PLN experiences through analysis of survey data from 151 higher education faculty and professionals. Data analysis suggested that the anytime, anywhere availability of expansive PLNs, and their capacity to respond to educators' diverse interests and needs, fostered new learning experiences. Participants reported that their PLNs supported professional growth, specifically in the areas of teaching and learning. These findings have implications for defining the present and future of faculty learning and development in a digital age.

Citation

Trust, T., Carpenter, J.P. & Krutka, D.G. (2017). Moving beyond silos: professional learning networks in higher education. Internet and Higher Education, 35(1), 1-11. Elsevier Ltd. Retrieved March 28, 2024 from .

This record was imported from Internet and Higher Education on January 29, 2019. Internet and Higher Education is a publication of Elsevier.

Full text is availabe on Science Direct: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.iheduc.2017.06.001

Keywords