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CEDTAP Forum 2000
Proceedings: Collaborative Learning Networks

This presentation was based on twenty case studies of Collaborative Learning Networks (CLNs) as well as a conceptual framework developed by the New Economy Development Group.

What is a CLN?

  • Community learning networks are community-controlled structures and systems aimed at furthering community development and enhancing the lives of their constituencies by supporting and encouraging life-long learning.
  • To be relevant, community learning networks must operate within the confines of a geographically-circumscribed community defined also as a community of interest.
  • Technology, and more specifically telecommunication technology, may or may not play a central role in community learning networks. When it dœs, it supports and enables either the networking or the learning function, or both.

Attributes of CLNs:

  • Adept at bringing in partners and mobilizing resources.
  • A key element of community capacity-building.
  • Locally scaled but globally linked.
  • Knowledge, not information-based.
  • Democratic and community-controlled.
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Context of CLNs:

  • Communication technologies remove barriers of time and place.
  • Many communities left behind in the information economy.
  • Structural changes brought about by «commodization» of information.
  • Lifelong learning a tool to alleviate adjustment difficulties.
  • Computer and networking technologies: tools to rebuild communities?
  • CLNs a buzzword for government intervention.

Key Issues:

  • Lifelong learning creates new questions for society.
  • The importance of "social capital".
  • Are computer-based CLNs incompatible with human communities?
  • Sustainability.
  • Skill gaps for online learning technologies.
  • The importance of partnership.
  • The role of technologies.
  • CLN impact on learning.
  • The role of government.
  • The role of the private sector.
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Case Studies:

See Models of Community Learning Networks in Canada.

Challenges:

  • Too many organizations "kicking the can".
  • Fostering a sense of ownership.
  • Identifying needs and problems.
  • Encouraging active participation of learners.
  • Lack of funding.
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Opportunities:

  • Work from a business plan.
  • Expanding partnerships.
  • Have visible successes.
  • Pay attention to content.
  • Early identification of champions.

Facilitator:

François Lamontagne, New Economy Development Group

 

   
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