Network 1 is one of EERA’s largest networks and has two Link Convenors. This year, Hannu Heikkinen stepped down as Link Convenor and was replaced by Mihaela Mitescu-Manea. We are pleased that Hannu has decided to remain on the convenor team. Ken Jones and Mihaela Mitescu-Manea, the current Link Convenors, have worked with two groups of convenors. One, led by Mihaela, is responsible for the reviewing process with Giorgio Ostinelli and Sally Windsor supporting; the other, led by Ken with support from Stefan Zehetmeier and Amanda Ince, oversees the programming planning and scheduling of conference sessions.
Network 1 continues to grow and develop. More convenors meetings have been held than in previous years and there is an energy from the team to engage with each other and with others to create an active network, not limited to the annual ECER event.
A summary of annual comparisons of ECER submissions since 2018 shows 131 presentations for 2023 compared with 108 in 2019. There was a significant drop in 2021 and 2022 so this indicates a return to pre pandemic levels of participation, with increasing numbers from Southern/ Eastern Europe and more international (beyond Europe) submissions. Submissions continue to be diverse with an increase in the number of symposia and panel discussions. The team of 50 reviewers efficiently made decisions on over 130 submissions.
Developments in 2023 include the continuing success of the TIME project (Ecologies of Teacher Induction and Mentoring in Europe) and the publication of a book drawing on Network 1 presentations from different European countries at ECER symposia over the last 3 years.
The successful and stimulating Network meeting at ECER in Glasgow will generate greater interaction with network participants, provide a pool of high-quality reviewers and hopefully increasing submissions.
An online newsletter is planned to raise awareness of professional learning initiatives and give a voice to network participants.
The large number of participants in Glasgow provided opportunities for interactive discussion in most sessions. The venue was excellent, and it was pleasing to have a full capacity attendance at the network meeting. The TIME project team held a workshop which was very well attended. The project is coordinated by NW1 convenor Hannu Heikkinen and funded through EERA.
Once again, three symposia were held to provide an update on professional learning policy and practice in 12 European countries. The newly-formed TIME network will reach out to over 80 people.