I have a confession to make: I'm addicted to my Professional Learning Community. Not just a little, either. I am continually checking my professional Twitter account, reading other educators' blogs, and forwarding information such as links and news stories to my fellow educators. Some people in my PLC, such as Kim Cofino, call it a Personal Learning Environment. Whatever you decide to call it, the most important thing is that you start your own and use it consistently.
My school district blocks most websites, including any social media sites and blogs. Yet, I am able to add many RSS feeds and Twitter to my Netvibes page, which is limited, but still accessible. I also use UberTwitter on my Crackberry, which, after trying a couple different ones, feel is one of the best mobile Twitter apps.
Recently, the county I teach in decided to start its' own PLC on Elgg. I don't think it will take off because of the limits placed on teachers by administrators. Limited technology, limited accessibility, and limited time will hinder this good intention. I also foresee that educators who are uncomfortable meandering online communities will be skipping out on this PLC. Since the beginning of the year, only about 12 people out of an entire county worth of educators have joined the network.
The whole point of social media, technology, and personal learning communities defines life-long learning. I enjoy conversing with my PLC because I feel like I have a posse of professionals to back me up when I want more insight to an idea, have a burning question, or need a few virtual shoulders to cry on. I love my PLC, even if I've never met the people I chat with-- at least I know I'm not alone in this crazy mess called public education!
My school district blocks most websites, including any social media sites and blogs. Yet, I am able to add many RSS feeds and Twitter to my Netvibes page, which is limited, but still accessible. I also use UberTwitter on my Crackberry, which, after trying a couple different ones, feel is one of the best mobile Twitter apps.
Recently, the county I teach in decided to start its' own PLC on Elgg. I don't think it will take off because of the limits placed on teachers by administrators. Limited technology, limited accessibility, and limited time will hinder this good intention. I also foresee that educators who are uncomfortable meandering online communities will be skipping out on this PLC. Since the beginning of the year, only about 12 people out of an entire county worth of educators have joined the network.
The whole point of social media, technology, and personal learning communities defines life-long learning. I enjoy conversing with my PLC because I feel like I have a posse of professionals to back me up when I want more insight to an idea, have a burning question, or need a few virtual shoulders to cry on. I love my PLC, even if I've never met the people I chat with-- at least I know I'm not alone in this crazy mess called public education!