Technology Blog #2: Building Your Connected Learning Community and why it applies to my future career choice

Chapter 6 of The Connected Educator: Learning and Leading in a Digital Age explains how to create and grow a strong learning community. It highlights the importance of building relationships based on trust, shared goals, and active participation. The chapter introduces the idea of a Personal Learning Network (PLN), which is a group of people who support each other’s learning and growth. It also explains how to design an online or in-person space where people can collaborate, share ideas, and develop new skills. Over time, these communities evolve as members bring in new perspectives and adapt to different challenges​.

The ideas in this chapter connect well to a career in college student affairs, which focuses on supporting students and creating an engaging campus environment. Just like educators build learning communities, student affairs professionals help students connect with each other and find opportunities for leadership and personal growth. They create support systems through student organizations, mentorship programs, and campus activities. By applying the same principles used in connected learning communities, student affairs professionals can make sure students feel welcome, supported, and included in their college experience.

Technology also plays a big role in both connected learning and student affairs. Many student organizations and campus programs now use social media, online platforms, and virtual communities to engage students. The chapter’s discussion about how learning communities change over time is important because student affairs professionals must also adjust their programs to meet the needs of a diverse and ever-changing student body. By using these strategies, student affairs professionals can create fun, supportive, and educational spaces where students can thrive both in and outside of the classroom.