A professional development weblog: supporting work-based learning in a TAFE Library

Abstract

This paper explores whether a professional development weblog could support work-based learning in a TAFE Library. The paper includes both a literature review of material dealing with work-based learning in the VET sector, weblogs and their possible use as a professional development tool and an evaluation of a weblog project devised to support professional development in the Library at Box Hill Institute. Analysis of the literature suggested that there were educational aspects of the practices of weblogging that supported some of the trends and learning outcomes of work-based learning in the VET sector. These included team learning and reflective and deep learning. Review of the literature also showed that concepts of knowledge management and information literacy have aspects in common with the educational practices of weblogging. During the weblog project, staff were actively involved in contributing to the weblog and evaluated their experience through a questionnaire. Staff reported that they had developed professionally from participating in the project, particularly in the areas of sharing knowledge and team learning and that there was potential for further professional development in the areas of archiving and reflective practice.