What is a PLN?
A PLN is a 'Professional Learning Network." PLNs are typically formed over a social media website; however, they can also be real-life groups of professionals. These networks are created to provide both preservice and actively serving teachers a chance to share information and techniques that they use in the classroom. By building this PLN, teachers create a community of constant learning and encouragement. I created a PLN through the social media Twitter, which is a very good place to start. There are so many chats available that allow PLNs to easily form and thoughts are shared and accessed in a very easy way. Twitter is also a very strong and reliable resource for teachers to build up a community on because people from all around the country are able to connect with each other and share ideas that they are passionate about.
Why is building a PLN important?
Building a PLN is crucial for teachers. Whether the PLN built is online or at home, in your district, it is so important for teachers to be involved in a community of learners, because that becomes a constant support for you throughout your time serving in the educational field. There were times in my involvement on Twitter where I was the learner and also times where I was the teacher. By involving yourself in such a community as this, you are allowing yourself to learn from those who have come before you, all the while preparing yourself to teach those who will come after you- and sometimes even those who have come before you! Not only are you expanding your knowledge base by involving yourself in these communities, but you are also creating relationships with teachers who are openly willing to guide and help you through your time as a teacher. I have already felt so welcomed and have been offered so much help, and I have grown so much from this great group of educators. I highly recommend building a PLN of your own, as it is something that I see great value in now and as I enter into a classroom of my own.
Dorsey, J. (2018). Twitter. Retrieved April 29, 2018, from http://www.twitter.com/
Dorsey, J. (2018). Twitter. Retrieved April 29, 2018, from http://www.twitter.com/