Summer Planning: Do You Have a PLN?

Three years ago, if a friend had asked me if I had a PLN, I would have answered with a resounding NO! Three short years ago, I didn’t think I had the time or energy to maintain a PLN. Honestly, the thought of it felt more like a burden than a help. I am singing a different tune today. Now, I not only understand the significance of my PLN, I strongly encourage peers and mentees to set aside time to establish (and grow) a solid PLN. Whatever letters you choose to label your learning community, this group is as significant as any group you will work with today or in the future.

I am excited to see so many educators actively seeking professional development opportunities within as well as outside their schools. Now, through the use of technology and the boom of social media, teachers no longer have to function in a vacuum alone inside their classroom. Teachers can enhance their teaching instruction as well as seek and share content with peers through LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and individual blogs. If you have been putting off starting a PLN or if you haven’t had the time to fully cultivate your PLN, the summer is a great time to develop a great professional learning network. Check out a helpful guide from EdSurge. tlb