An Exploratory Study of the Personal Learning Environments of Security and Investigation Professionals

This paper describes and discusses how security management and investigation professionals use Personal Learning Environments (PLE) for work-related learning and continuing professional development. It is based on an exploratory study, using a qualitative description approach. An online questionnaire was completed by 67 study participants in 17 countries, followed by Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) or telephone interviews with 11 of them. The study found that these professionals participate in online discussion groups and access networks and resources. Their collaborative activities in online spaces are limited for reasons that include security, privacy, authenticity of information, and employer restriction concerns. Many therefore may limit opportunities to learn from their local, national, and international peers within PLEs. This also limits discussions of digital literacy skills that might otherwise be expected. Study participants were limited to those who responded to a request for participation posted in online discussion groups. Further research may identify those who are more actively involved in online collaboration and identify reasons for different levels of participation. Presenting case studies of successful collaborative efforts may encourage others in the occupation, enhance continuing professional development, and contribute to the research literature connecting PLEs with careers. This study contributes to the literature on PLEs and digital literacy relating to adults and work-related learning.