Developing Personal Learning Networks – Resources

People are not learning exclusively from conventional sources like courses and classrooms. In truth we never did, but there’s a growing awareness of the small percentage of learning that comes from formal means as compared to informal means. Learning is happening all the time in a multitude of different ways. More and more people are realizing they are networked learners, with a large percentage of their learning coming via a dedicated group of chosen and trusted resources. This network of resources is commonly referred to as a Personal Learning Network (or PLN), and it is one of the most powerful learning tools in a networked world.

But what exactly is a PLN? Where does one exist? How does someone build one? How can an organization leverage PLNs across their enterprise?

This page serves as a supplemental resource to a talk I give on this topic exploring the value of personal learning networks, and the steps and tips needed to build a strong PLN.

Session Slides

What is a PLN (Personal Learning Network)?
Personal Learning Network Wikipedia entry
What is a PLN and why do I need one? by Colette Cassinelli
What is a PLN? (and why would I want to know?) via Digital Learning Team

Why Do Learning Professionals Need a PLN?
Personal Learning Networks (PLN) = An Attitude of Gratitude by Dawn Mahoney
Your Most Powerful Search Engine is Your Personal Learning Network (PLN) by David Kelly

How Can I Build and Nurture a PLN?
Nuts and Bolts: Building a Personal Learning Network (PLN) by Jane Bozarth
Using Twitter as a Professional Development Tool by David Kelly
5 Things You Can Do to Begin Developing Your Personal Learning Network by Lisa Nielsen
Tools for Building your Personal Learning Network LiveBinder by Tim Wilhelmus
Building a PLN Pinterest board by Brian Frimel
The Social Media Guide to Growing Your Personal Learning Network by OLE
Establishing Your Professional Learning Network (PLN) by Andrea Vernola

Additional Related Resources
My Learning Styles Awakening by David Kelly
Sometimes You Just Need to Meet Your PLN Face-to-Face by Helen Blunden
Reflections on #lrnchat: Using a Conference Backchannel for Attendees and Non-Attendees by David Kelly
Eli Pariser: Beware Online Filter Bubbles TED Talk
What’s your Personal Social Media Strategy? by David Kelly

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