Tools to Grow Your PLN

Rebecca Alber in her article 5 Highly Effective Teaching Practices (https://www.edutopia.org/blog/5-highly-effective-teaching-practices-rebecca-alber) states that great teachers spend time with colleagues discussing classroom best practices. What if, however, you are the only one on your campus that teaches your subject area or you cannot arrange a time to meet with your colleagues? My solution is social media.

I have a large Professional Learning Network (PLN) that assists me on a regular basis. This weekend I needed some suggestions about how to teach the students about the parts of a computer. I posted on Facebook in 2 groups what I needed and within 24 hours I had more suggestions than I could possibly implement.

Another helpful tool is Twitter. My PLN regularly posts on Twitter different strategies that they have tested in their classroom. They post to allow others to try their approach. I have also posted questions on Twitter and my PLN will offer suggestions within 24 hours. If you need help getting started using Twitter you can contact Myra. If have posted a video below that describes the value of using Twitter.

NEA ED Communities is an additional electronic platform where you can receive inspiration. I asked ED Communities for suggestions for Riddle Sites. One suggestion was http://brainden.com/logic-riddles.htm. ED Communities is a place where teachers, parents, school support professionals, and community members share ideas and resources to improve student success. The Professional Practice Communities is the perfect way to connect with colleagues on topics that range from math, science, and gifted to 21st Century skills, Common Core, Bullying, and Education Support Professionals. Join one of the established groups or start your own. It is free and open to all!