How do you continue to grow and develop professionally each year. For me, it is a mix of technology and conferences. Kristin Fontichiaro on the School Library Media Activities Monthly blog posted a list of things for people to think about when coming to ALA Annual this summer. While she had a most exhaustive list, I commented on the blog that I think the number one thing to do at conference is to build your network. I can’t tell you how invaluable it has been for me over the years to have library media colleagues all over the state of Indiana and all over the country that are only an email away. One of my favorite parts of attending a conference was (and still is) a chance to see all my friends and get a chance to talk and catch-up.
But I wonder as I am working on another project today whether building that network can happen without attending a conference. I used Facebook today to connect with a library media specialist I hadn’t talk with in years. I logged onto Twitter and checked out some new resources and tools. I had a back and forth email conversation with a colleague where we bounced back and forth ideas for future articles we might write. My network where I might see or talk with these folks once in a great while now has the potential to keep me in contact with them all the time.
I still intend to be a conference attendee for many years to come. I enjoy the traveling. I enjoy talking and interacting with people face to face. But, I love that I can connect with friends via these technology tools, too. It gives me just another vehicle to keep growing and learning professionally.
Tags: professionaldevelopment · slmam · web2.03 Comments
3 responses so far ↓
You raise a great point — and one that we’re starting to hear more and more — about how digital networks keep us connected beyond face-to-face conferences. Yet there’s something about being in the same place, experiencing the same things (food! books! speakers!) that strengthens the bond in a way we haven’t yet digitally replicated. Those shared experiences are what help us move beyond networking to friendship.
Hi Carl,
My colleagues and I loved your WEMTA presentation on the Big Six. I am just looking for the documents for your Research folder that you said would be up on your website. We are meeting tomorrow to talk about implementing these in our schools. Thanks again for sharing your wonderful ideas!!
I had a great time in Madison this week. If you click on Speaking on the navigation bar of my website, you should find all the resources from my session. Thanks!