Or… The Magnificent Seven

Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash

So, on the train home again, thinking about conversations had over a meal, after a meeting of the Technology, Pedagogy and Education committee (The TPEA is emerging from ITTE)…..

Why do we join Associations?  Why do we pay for membership of professional organisations? Well in my case I think it’s for a number of reasons.

One – professional networks – to meet fellows in the profession and share ideas that help us do our jobs better.

Two – professional standing – the credibility it can bring with peers and the ability to influence what happens in your domain.  

Three – resources – access to materials and research that might not be accessible otherwise, enhancing your performance.

Four – support – help from peers ( and believe me there are times I need it).

Five – expectations – from employers and line managers and peers.

Six – career progression – all of the above can help you grow professionally and show that to others, such as the Higher Education Academy and TEF.  

Seven – fun and friendship – I have made great friends and had good times with fellow members of ITTE and MirandaNet (now together as TPEA), which is good for my mental wellbeing.

So when your institution asks, why are we paying this? Tell  them its for good of the students and staff, for the TEF and for the magnificent seven.