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.

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.

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.

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