Mapping Your Professional Learning Network, Part 2

Back in January 2021, I wrote a post about my Professional Learning Network (PLN). In this post, I mapped out who helps me grow professionally and reflected on the contents. Here is what I said then:

What I Notice

• I have an extensive network. This may not come as a surprise to most, as I’ve been in the field for 28 years. What is significant about this, however, is that even though I have been in the field for a long time I am still learning from others, seeking help from others, and giving back to my network. 

• I contribute as much as I consume. For me, I see this as one of the internal traits of being an educator- to share. I often will find resources that relate to the work others are doing and will pass content on. Those who connect with me are used to my “FYI” or “Thought of You” emails with links to content I think they can use.

• I tend to predominately connect with colleagues who share the same viewpoints on education. This can be seen as both a positive and a negative. Given the nature of the world in 2020 & 2021 between politics and pandemics, this is something I need to do to achieve balance right now.

• I lean on different networks at different times, based on constraints and needs. The best part is my network is always there when I need them.

Today, all of these points still hold true. Revisiting my map and updating it didn't yield significant changes which seems right since not much time has passed. I still lean on primarily the same networks. The difference, however, is that there are several people that once started out as professional colleagues and are now friends. I've worked on special projects because of this network which has helped me not only grow personally but also give back to education. My plan is to continue to revisit and reflect on my PLN map in hopes of diversifying the viewpoints and connecting with new people. 

Read a post I contributed to on 5 Tips to Growing Your PLN this Year.