Personal Learning Networks (PLNs)
A Personal Learning Network (PLN) is a tool that educators use to collaborate, communicate, create, and connect with other colleagues from all around the world by using social media and technology to share resources and information. Educators can join and/or create multiple PLNs based on their interests, needs and subject area(s).
Still don't understand what a PLN is? Take a look at the video below.
This week, we had to find and share a few PLNs that would be beneficial for educators. Here are a few that I found--feel free to check them out!
The Educator's PLN (recommended for all educators- lots of resources- videos, blogs, forums, etc.)
edWeb (recommended for all educators-find and join learning communities to engage in forums, webinars, etc.)
Edutopia (recommended for all educators- browse topics, watch educational videos, join discussion forums, etc.)
Here are some more sites for PLNs for Educators:
Need More Help? Read "3 Steps for Building a Personal Learning Network" or "Teacher's Guide on Creating Personal Learning Networks"
Diigo (Social Bookmarking Tool)
Diigo is a social bookmarking tool that allows you to organize and store all of your favorite bookmarks in one place. Not only that, you can also join or create groups to share your favorite websites in regards to your interests and/or subject matter (check out the group "The Connected Educator"). Diigo also allows you to create tags that automatically organize your websites into categories (i.e. education, technology, assessment tools, etc.). This is a great tool to organize your favorite websites, share ideas and collaborate with others.
Below is a video on how to use Diigo:
Want to use Diigo in your classroom? Watch the video below on how to use Diigo in Education:
Twitter (Social Media PLN)
Twitter is a great tool for adding to your Personal Learning Network. Not only can you follow others and read their tweets, you can also communicate by posting your own tweet, reply to another individuals tweet, or retweet a post that you really like. Additionally, you can join live chats pertaining to your interests. Twitter affords educators the opportunity to share ideas, obtain new ideas or resources, as well as communicate and collaborate with other educators.
Below is a video tutorial on how to use Twitter: (It's lengthy, but worth it if you have the time!)
Need a tutorial that's a little shorter? Here you go!
Want to use Twitter for Professional Development? Click HERE to see how.
Here are some additional sites that might help you to navigate and gain knowledge on Twitter:
Once you have created your account, don't forget to follow me on Twitter @CoachAllen40. Here are some other Educational Twitter Accounts that you can also look into. Happy Tweeting!
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