A Whole Lot of "Learners"

Landon Bennett

Gathering from as far as Florida and as close as PUC itself, a group of 106 teachers, educators and “ learners” from all over the Christian education community convened at PUC for the annual Adventist Virtual Learning Network convention.

Nationally acclaimed authors Rena Palloff and Keith Pratt spoke at the convention, presenting ways to build a stronger learning environment. One idea they proposed was to use the term “learner” in lieu of “student” or “ teacher” in order to build a more interactive and cooperative learning atmosphere. “They really helped us look to the future,” said Bob Paulson, PUC professor and 2004 AVLN coordinator. “We see opportunity for growth, no matter what avenue we work in.”

AVLN was founded on the belief that teachers and schools do not grow on their own; instead, through collaborative efforts, they can become better educators and stronger institutions. This year, AVLN made specific recommendations to the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and to Adventist college presidents regarding the future of web-based classes and the need for universal acceptance of credits across Adventist colleges. The attendees hope that next year the conference will be completely online.