Brackish Connections: (Digital) Learning Networks,(Virtual) Communities of Practice,and the Rich Learning-To-Action Pathways of Their Combined and Intersecting Existence

Abstract

The Problem

Virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) share many features of digital learning networks (DLNs). Their work is ecosystemically connected, and they operate on overlapping continuums. This makes understanding how they function and decisions about which term to use difficult.

The Solution

This article outlines points of convergence and divergence between VCoPs and DLNs. It explains how the term, complexly coevolving, clarifies their brackish connections, and the proposed term, glocal peer-learning practice networks (GPPNs), is needed to describe their intersecting existence.

The Stakeholders

Organizations and networks that seek to quickly and comprehensively describe the scale and scope of their work. Researchers who seek to unify terminology for better evaluation and advancement of the field across societal sectors. Practitioners and funders who aim to develop or strengthen work against issues of global concern using combined features of VCoPs and DLNs.

Keywords

virtual communities of practice (VCoPs)digital learning networks (DLNs)complexly coevolving glocal peer-learning practice networks (GPPNs)learning-to-action pathways

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