Network Power - Active Outdoors Network February 21, 2009
Posted by Bill in : A Curriculum for Excellence, Active Outdoors Network, Networks, Outdoor Learning , trackback
Last year I atteneded the East Lothian Active Outdoor Event at Carberry Tower. Helen Bruce from ELC has been in touch with those who attended and showed interest in setting up a network and notes;
Following the very successful Active Outdoors event which was held last October there was considerable interest in keeping the momentum going by setting up an Active Outdoors Network.
It was suggested the purpose of this network would be to :
· promote ways of being active in the outdoors in East Lothian
· promote the health message to providers of outdoor physical activity
· increase the interchange of ideas and issues between groups
· provide opportunities for networking and influencing
· develop training opportunities where appropriate
There wll also be a talk by Juliet Robertson on “early Years and the outdoors ” at the first forum meeting on the 1st April. Juliet has made comments on this blog in the past so I am looking forward to hearing her presentation.
This network is just another example of how East Lothian values it’s outdoor learning opportunities and the benefits they bring to the wider community.
The image above is from a friend who runs the Social Networking Company and they highlight just how imporant and emphasise the power of networks;
Did You Know There are 24 Types of Real World Social Network?
Social networks can be hierarchies, formal networks, informal, operational, strategic, or personal. These networks can also be internal to companies or external. And of course they can be real world or online.Life is not simple
An individual’s social networks are often nested, interconnect and overlap with other networks. Understanding these varied social networks and managing them unlocks huge hidden value in organisations.It’s who you know…Important social networks within companies and across communities are often informal and unrecognised, yet they are often MORE important than official titles and structures - After all, it’s who you know (& who you trust) that drives performance - not just what you know.
If you check out the site don’t forget to check out the Frank Water link - an excellent example of social enterprise benefiting the wider, and in this case international community.
Comments»
Hi Bill
I think networking is paramount within the Scottish outdoor learning world. It brings people together and allows ideas to grow and spread.
I have often considered setting up an outdoor “netwalking” group for individuals to meet maybe three times a year to walk, talk and enjoy. I think I’m tired of constant electronic communication!
Best wishes
Juliet
PS I’m looking forward to 1st April too…not least to be able to put names to faces and find out more about all the good work going on in your neck of the woods.
Yes the electronic stuff is useful however there is more power in the face to face without doubt! Your Netwalking idea is great.