Personal Learning Network (PLN)
What is a PLN?
A PLN is a global personal learning network that allows people to gather and interact with others in a personal learning enviorment.
Personal:
A PLN is about making connections and building personal relationships with teachers, school administrators, professors, and professional experts around the world. People can share about what is going on in the world, whether it is by sharing personal expeirences, blogging and/or asking questions.
Learning:
The learning portion of a PLN is about sharing ideas and resources, collaborating with others, and learning. People can share their learning in multiple ways. Many people use media to help build their professional development. It is always available.
Network:
A PLN is all about "global learning network, enabling people to tap into and share diverse, global perspectives on teaching strategies, educational issues, and technologies. It takes time and effort to build these connections, but it’s well worth the effort" (Ronnie Burt http://teacherchallenge.edublogs.org/pln-challenge-1-what-the-heck-is-a-pln/).
Why do we want to create or want to be part of a PLN?
Whether you are a new teacher or an expierenced teacher, a PLN is a great way to connect with other people. As teachers we are always looking for new ways to improve our teaching and find new ideas. Whether you join a PLN or create your PLN, it is a global network that may change your teaching approach. It allows you to join other communities to find valuable information. You can start with collegees, then move into the larger communities. Start by finding a location where you can learn and find information that is valuable to you. This can be powerful, since the more professionals that join, the more resources shared and the more you learn! It is also personalized based on your interests, so you get to choose your valubale interests. Click on any of the websites below for further information on how to create your own PLN!
This fun blog is a great way to figure out how to start your own PLN!
This blog discusses the importance of getting connected. It also discusses how to get connected in a PLN.
This detailed website is extremely detailed on how to create a PLN. On this blog, it discusses
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1 What is a PLN?
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2 What is a PLN Video
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3 Why create a PLN
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4 Being a connected educator
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5 Building your own PLN
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6 Your Task
This blog shares ideas on how to grow your PLN. Each idea, has a link to further connect your PLN.
General Examples of a PLN:
Twitter is a great way to connect with other teachers and educators. It is a unique way to connect with others because of the use of hastags/links. Click on the image for a tutorial on how to create a twitter page.
Blogging is another tool to create a PLN. It is easy to use and is always accessible since it is online. Click on the image for a tutorial on how to creat your on blog.
Pinterest is another tool to connect with educators. Click on the link for a quick and easy tutorial. Pinterest is such a fun and easy way to share ideas with others.
Edmodo is a tool to connect with educators globally. Click above for a quick tutorial to get started!