Reactions and responses : the concept of learning networks

In Victoria, Australia, the potential of networks to respond to issues of risk for young people has been identified. Learning networks have become a means to reform resulting in a number of policy strategies by the Victorian Labour government since 2000 and including <i>School Networks</i> and <i>Local Learning</i> and Employment Networks (LLENs). At the same time organic learning networks continue to form at a ‘grass roots’ level as communities respond to perceived needs. This presentation draws on research into the foundation, formation and practice of the Smart Geelong Region Local Learning and Employment Network (SGR LLEN) and considers the opportunities and tensions when government policies take up and institutionalise solutions in ways that potentially work against the conditions that make them effective, viable and sustainable.<br />