#2 - Enter to Connect and Interconnect

Learning and teaching does not happen in a bubble. A connected educator believes in sharing and collaboration. Teachers have always looked to other teachers for support and advice. Traditionally, connections are limited to teachers within the same school due to proximity and frequency of interaction. Interschool connections were available through conferences and conventions, too, but not ideal if you need an immediate solution to an urgent concern. With the advancement of technology, educators are now able to connect with other teachers globally wherever and whenever.

Everyone – including educators and students – can benefit from creating a PLN – be it a personal, professional, or personalized learning network. According to The Teacher Challenge, eight benefits of having a PLN include (1) being in charge of one’s own professional development; (2) one can explore one’s own interests, needs, and passions; (3) flexibility to learn and connect at a time that suits one 24/7; (4) one can learn and connect in a way that one enjoys; (5) one can have light and shade to one’s PLN; (6) one can stay current on research and best practice; (7) allows for broad brainstorming or fine tuning; and (8) globally connected students need globally connected teachers.

As someone starting my own PLN, I have already seen several benefits especially with resources, advice, feedback. I enjoy the flexibility of learning and sharing on my own time. I look forward to learning more and giving more, to sharing and collaborating.