Applied Learning Network
Tue, Aug 1, 2006; by Bill Coppinger.Applied Learning Network
2008 Update:
After considerable consultations and discussions with the School, TAFE and ACE sectors across our region, the Central Ranges LLEN is continuing to support an Applied Learning Network to support the work of educators across the Macedon, Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires.
Teachers and Instructors have told us that the range of demands for VCAL, VET in Schools, VCE and a range of blended programmes has meant many do not feel as prepared or resourced as they would like. Frequent staff changes and course changes also means many practitioners are feeling less equipped than they should and are looking for professional and collegiate support.
The need for organisational and structural collaborative planning is also a common theme from our consultations.
In the first instance, we hope the network will be a simple sounding board for good practice, and knowledge sharing. We also hope to expand the network over time to consider specific longer-term professional development and community engagement models. Possible travel or study support for network members will also be something we may consider.
The network will be open to anyone working in the education sector. We do not plan to duplicate existing networks nor do we plan to add more meeting schedules to already overloaded calendars! We will look to develop opportunities that relate to current groups and support the establishment of new networks where and if needed.
We also plan to work closely with groups such as the Local Community Partnerships, School Clusters and Local Government initiatives to ensure coordinated/complimentary effort.
The developing opportunities around Trade Training Centres as well as the Victorian VET and VCAL Reviews also means we have a considerable opportunity to further imporve and strengthen the pathways available to the young people in our community.
Background - Phone Conference
The first meeting of the newly formed Central Ranges Applied Learning Network [CRALN] held its first phone conference Thursday the 10th of August 2006] at 3:30pm.
All teachers, trainers and educators interested in Applied Learning are more than welcome to participate!
Participating in the first meeting was Bruce McInnes from Mansfield Secondary College, Christine Cox - Coordinator of the Local Community Partnership, Geoff Barett, Chairperson of the Central Ranges LLEN and Cobaw Community Health Service, and Bill Coppinger from the LLEN.
A small but enthusiastic group! All agreed to continue to support and promote the idea of an applied learning network to colleagues.
Support for teachers new to the field, interesting examples of timetabling and support for VET, SBNAs and an explanation of upcoming professional development opportunities were part of the agenda for the meeting today.
Future meetings of the network will be supported by free-call phone conferencing and postings on the LLEN Applied Learning Network web pages.
To register your interest in the future Tele-conferences, please reply to the discussion topic below and leave your name, and email contact. As this is a closed discussion forum, your email is safe from "spammers".
Related Links
Discussion Forum for CRALN [Login required]
Examples of Local Applied Learning in Action
- Food Talks in Macedon! - Outstanding community engagement!
VCAL - Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning
We look forward to supporting your important work.
Bill Coppinger
