| dc.description.abstract | Membership engagement and retention in professional associations and other digital communities has dramatically changed since the beginning of the pandemic and the ability to increase membership and retention in professional associations is critical to their survival. This study investigates why digital learning professionals join and stay in professional associations by exploring how members engage and learn within those associations. Survey, interview, and observation data was gathered over a several month period from a chapter of a large digital learning professional association. This data was analyzed using the lens of communities of practice, situated lens, and self-directed learning. This study found that digital learning professionals seek membership to make authentic connections with others and that positive experiences must include a component of belonging and mutual recognition. Further, professional associations can sometimes create barriers to participation, engagement, and diversity within their association that limits their membership and the quality of their offerings. | |
