Professional Learning Networks (PLNs)

 

I’m exploring several Professional Learning Networks (PLNs) to enhance my skills, build connections with fellow educators and instructional designers, and keep up with the latest innovations and effective practices in educational technology and instructional design. These communities provide meaningful resources and collaborative opportunities that will contribute to my ongoing professional development.

1. Coursera Community

URL: https://www.coursera.org/
Goals for Adding: To engage with learners and educators worldwide while taking courses on instructional design, digital learning, and education technology. I want to discuss course content, exchange ideas, and stay motivated through peer support.

Participation Plan: Participate in course discussion forums, join community groups related to education topics, and share insights or questions to deepen understanding.

2. The Learning Guild

URL: https://www.learningguild.com/
Goals for Adding: To deepen my knowledge in instructional design and eLearning by connecting with professionals in the same field. I hope to learn best practices, explore new tools, and stay informed about research-based instructional strategies.
Participation Plan: Attend webinars and online events, download research reports and conference handouts, and eventually contribute by sharing insights or resources on their platform.

3. ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education)

URL: https://iste.org/

Goals for Adding: To expand my understanding of educational technology trends and effective digital learning practices. I want to explore tools and strategies for integrating technology into curriculum design to better support diverse learners.

Participation Plan: Attend virtual conferences and webinars, engage in member communities, access professional development resources, and contribute by sharing practical applications or case studies based on my experience.

References


Coursera. (n.d.-b). CourseRA | Degrees, Certificates, & free online courses.
https://www.coursera.org/


Common Sense Education. (2017, July 21). What’s a PLN? and 3 ways teachers can get
connected [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju54C5A3RCw


Iste. (2025, June 4). ISTE. ISTE. https://iste.org/


The Learning Guild: Community & Resources for learning professionals | The Learning Guild.
(n.d.). Copyright 2025 the Learning Guild. Copyright 2025: Powered by Cyclone Enterprise: Content Management Solutions and Dynamic Publishing System Developed by Cyclone Interactive Multimedia Group, Inc. http://www.cycloneinteractive.com, Powered by Cyclone and Powered by Cyclone Enterprise. Portional ColdFusion Programming Provided by Finial Software, Inc. www.finial.com.
https://www.learningguild.com/