Can your PLN be used to help professional development post-course?
I believe the knowledge I’ve got from this class and my PLN will ultimately help me with my professional development. As a recap, a PLN is a collection of individuals, resources, and technologies that a person uses to support their ongoing learning and professional growth. According to the article “Personal Learning Networks and Professional Development: A Study of Certified Public Accountants in Singapore” by Tan and Goh (2014), PLNs can be used to help individuals stay up-to-date with changes in their field, access information and resources, collaborate with others, and receive feedback on their work.
In the video “Building a Personal Learning Network,” Tom Whitby discusses how technology has made it exceptionally easier to build a PLN, he states as individuals can now connect with others around the world through social media platforms, blogs, and other online resources it can provide access to a diverse range of perspectives, ideas, and resources that can support ongoing learning and growth. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with other professionals in your field, as this can provide opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and support.
Whitby also explains how a PLN can help individuals stay up-to-date with changes in their field and access new ideas and perspectives. He suggests that a PLN can provide access to a diverse range of perspectives, ideas, and resources that can support ongoing learning and growth.
Can your PLN be relied on to open professional opportunities?
Absolutely! a Personal Learning Network can assist in helping open up professional opportunities. As said before, according to the article “Personal Learning Networks and Professional Development: A Study of Certified Public Accountants in Singapore” by Tan and Goh (2014), PLNs can help individuals stay up-to-date with changes in their field, access information and resources, and collaborate with others. By doing so, individuals may become more knowledgeable, skilled, and well-connected within their field, potentially leading to professional opportunities such as job offers, promotions, or other career advancements.
In addition, as discussed in the video “Building a Personal Learning Network” by Tom Whitby, building relationships with other professionals in your field through a PLN can lead to opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and support. These relationships can provide access to new ideas, perspectives, and resources, which can potentially lead to professional opportunities.
However, it’s important to note that while a PLN can be a valuable resource for professional development and potentially open up professional opportunities, it’s not a guarantee. You have to work the resources and it completely depends on your commitment. Building a PLN takes time and effort, and success ultimately depends on individual effort, skills, and circumstances.
A few ways to utilize your PLN and open professional opportunities are to:
- Staying up-to-date with changes in your field: you can stay on top of things by keeping up with the most recent trends and advancements in your profession by following the thought leaders in your business, taking part, and attending online events. This will increase your value as a consultant or employee.
- Accessing information and resources: Your PLN will provide you with access to a wealth of information and resources that can boost your learning, problem-solving, and pursuit of new opportunities. Using your PLN, for instance, you might find out about job openings, training courses, or networking events.
- Collaborating with others: Through your PLN, you can develop connections with other experts in your industry and take advantage of cooperation possibilities that can advance your career. Working together with others can also produce fresh insights and viewpoints that can aid in problem-solving and goal achievement.
- Receiving feedback on your work: Your PLN can give you insightful criticism on your work, which can help you develop your abilities and work. If you work as a consultant or freelancer, this can be very useful since it can help you establish a solid reputation and draw in new business.
Local impact of a PLN
The local impact of a Personal Learning Network can be significant, it helps individuals connect with other local professionals in their community and further put your foot in the door for creating relationships. By connecting with local professionals, you can gain access to resources and opportunities that are specific to your area. Some examples of this are job openings, networking events, and professional development workshops.
Additionally, This can be especially valuable for individuals who work in industries that are heavily influenced by local factors, such as real estate, urban planning, or local politics. A PLN also enables people to interact with other professionals who operate in the same industry and keep up with regional trends and changes in their field
Overall, a PLN can assist people in developing solid relationships with other professionals in their local area, which can result in a variety of professional chances and advantages.
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-02490-5_5