Be a Connected Educator

"With the further development of the internet and rise of social networking tools educators have many online options in terms of how and where they seek self-regulated PD” (Moreillon, 2016, p.65).

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Why is a personal learning network important to educators? 

Kathy Schrock, edtech guru, loved these reasons (from Derek Wenwoth, New Zealand):

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• "Help each other solve problems

• Hear each others’ stories and avoid local blindness

• Find synergy across structures

• Keep up with change

• Reflect on their practice and improve it

• Build shared understanding

• Find a voice and gain strategic influence

• Cooperate on innovation" (Schrock, 2013, para. 4).

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And these (from Robin Ellis, PA):

• "[T]he ability to connect, communicate, and collaborate globally.

• The network is always on 24/7/365 and always willing to share ideas and offer help.

• It is a way to build relationships otherwise not possible" (Schrock, 2013, para. 5).

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While there are many ways to get and stay connected, she provides a few important points to remember:

• Grow your "network to include experts and practitioners in that topic... [to] learn from them, have a chance to ask questions, and provide feedback on [your] thoughts, too" (Schrock, 2013, para. 6).

• "Remember that a PLN is a two-way street; you have to “pay it forward” and contribute, too! Everyone who teaches is creative, smart, and resilient. It’s the way we are. You all have great ideas and reflections to share" (Schrock, 2013, para. 6).

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