Particularities of teachers`academic networks in Colombia

Abstract

Academic networks are organizations that can dialogue with government agencies that are looking for academic representatives. These organizations are composed by intellectuals who in the field of education speak out with arguments when policies deviate from the anticipated and agreed horizons. Their dynamics are different according to their origins: when they have a bond with institutional authorities they tend to alter horizons and goals; when they are independent and autonomous, they last over time with the help of research and pedagogical innovations. Independence and autonomy enable critical and creative attitudes towards the decisions of governments in the field of education. Networking is part of the training and self-training of teachers who innovate and do research. The Language Network and the Colombian Association of Mathematic Education are the two most recognized teacher networks in Colombia.