Part of being a great teacher is being a great learner. Beyond class, where do you turn to for professional development? Conferences? Friends? Forums?
For many educators, the Internet offers many resources for developing what is often referred to as a PLN or “professional learning network”. Social networks like Twitter and LinkedIn allow individuals to connect with other teachers and members of the education community. There are also other sites like “The Educator’s PLN” and “Classroom 2.0” which consist of thousands of members, all looking to share ideas and resources.
Attend an EdCamp
Consider expanding your own PLN by attending EdCamp, a series of free “unconferences” that are sprouting up in cities all across the country. An “unconference” is an event where participants determine the presentations the day of. Any attendee can sign up to attend and you even have the option of leading your own presentation. It’s a great way to network, engage in meaningful conversations, and keep those public speaking skills fresh. Check out the Edcamp wiki to find out if there’s an EdCamp taking place in a city near you.
Find a Mentor
Mentors are those special people in life who can give professional guidance and offer moral support when you need it most. Mentors are personal cheerleaders who are invested in giving back. In addition to inspiring professors, there are thousands of passionate educators out there who are looking to support new teachers.
Lisa Dabbs and Shelly Terrell, two “must-follow” connectors and conversationalists on Twitter, just launched, “The Teacher Mentoring Project” through the Educator’s PLN. According to the group’s about section, the mission of the project is “to collaborate and find best practices and to mentor and support teachers in K-12 and higher education institutes of learning worldwide for online and offline learning. Create an account and sign up to connect with supportive educators from all around the world!
In addition to Edcamp and “The Teacher Mentoring Project” there are countless ways for teachers to learn beyond class instruction. And luckily, it’s now easier than ever. New technologies are transforming classrooms and teachers everywhere are learning and connecting with one another in unique and profound ways.
