I took part in an on-line connectivism conference recently. A session run by Will Richardson enabled me to make connections between connective teaching and the connective learning & development specialist. Although the contexts for Richardson’s thoughts were based on the educational sector, I believe that there are similarities with the corporate sector and our developing roles as learning & development specialists.
His key messages were;
Will Richardson suggests that the traditional teacher will become the ‘connective teacher’ of the future. It’s interesting to consider his thoughts in the context of the ‘Connective Learning & Development Professional’ who could be described in the following way:
Richardson identifies obstacles in becoming a connective teacher, for example:
- Fear of technology, change & transparency.
- Being outside of the ‘content’ comfort zone.
- Lack of time to reflect, collaborate, publish & participate in networks.
- Lack of support.
- Lack of knowledge & skills required to participate.
It seems to me that as our profession embraces the digital age we will need to focus on the development of new skills including; the efficient gathering & processing of current & valid information and finding new ways of maintaining meaningful, professional on-line relationships and networks.
To what degree should we be connective learning & development professionals
To what extent should we be involved in social networking?
How could we integrate these concepts into our programmes? In order to fully involve ourselves in the age of connectivity what new skills do we need to develop? What do you think?
Lynn Wernham http://2coach.wordpress.com
