Monday, March 14, 2011

Journal #6: Growing Your Personal Learning Network (NETS-T 3 & 5)

Warlick, D. (2011, March/April) Growing Your Own Personal Learning Network. Learning and Leading Through Technology, 38(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-march-april-2011.aspx

In the article, Warlick introduces 3 different types of Personal Learning Networks (PLNs). The first PLN is the personally maintained connection. This type of connection involves people and places a person uses to answer questions, solve problems, and accomplish goals. Tools associated with this network include teleconferencing software, Twitter, instant and text messaging, and virtual worlds. The second type of PLN is the social and personally maintained connections. This connection allows for people to be in different places, but still lets them to participate at their own pace, one that works best with their own schedule. Tools that enable this type of connection include Twitter and Google Docs. The third type of connection is the dynamically maintained connection. This connection helps people find updates to sites that they find have educational value to them. Updates are able to happen by using an RSS feed. Another useful tool for this type of PLN is social bookmarking sites. These websites allow others to see the websites when you add them to your web pages as well, thus expanding the number of people who are able to use it as a tool.

Question 1: Which type of PLN is most effective?

A: I think the most effective type is the dynamically maintained connection. It seems to be the most widespread. The RSS feed seems really helpful because often sites are bookmarked, but then they're never used again. RSS feeds keep people updated on changes that have been made to the site. Another reason why this is a good PLN is because you're able to see other sites that are similar to ones that you already like.

Question 2: How can PLNs be incorporated into a classroom?

A: PLNs for students can be used the same way it is for teachers and educators. Students can use the PLNs for school projects to help save them time when researching for a project or paper. It can also be used for personal use, such as hobbies and interests.

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