Professional Learning and PLN

Part 2

This semester has been a lot. Because of that, I don’t feel as if I was able to participate in the PLN as I would
have like too. I do use social media mostly to keep up with friends, family, hobbies that I like, book clubs, and a few ELA
Facebook groups. Participating in Twitter just has never been my thing. The only reason that I have a Twitter account is
because I needed it for a class while getting my masters. It’s hard to keep up with all of the social media accounts.

I understand the importance of using social media like Twitter (though with the way things are now with the
new owner, I am wary). I do find interesting things on there when I do get on. There is a lot going on with technology
and schools and using it in the classroom. It can be overwhelming with all these sites. But the information is useful. I also
found that my school is just posting about the good things happening on the campus, but nothing technology related. I
used Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to share out that I had a DonorsChoose project that I was looking for funding for.
I also posted my excitement when the project became fully funded.

I believe that connecting with other teachers and other ELA teachers is important. I do get some ideas through
Facebook groups. The cohort that I am a part of for grad school created a Group Me group for us to communicate
through. I have found this to be extremely helpful. We are able to communicate as a whole or directly with each other.
This worked great when working on a group project and not being in the same town.

Part 3

Retweeted this article from ITSE. I thought it was appropriate because of what
 I tweeted that I was using Plickers, attached a picture, and tagged
Plickers’ account. They came and liked my tweet.

Sharing on Instagram magnetic folder holders to use on boards.

Here I asked a teachers group on Facebook a tech questions about what they use in the classroom.

I created a DonorsChoose project to get funding

for a piece of technology in my classroom
(ScreamBeam EDU 1000). I even created and
shared a video requesting funding. I shared
everything on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram,
as well as bothering family members through
WhatsApp. Even with retweeting or sharing post
again, I only received 2 donations until Osh Kosh
B’gosh and the Atlanta Braves Foundation
cleared the remaining balance. I am not sure
how they found my project. I think after awhile
DonorsChoose reaches out to local groups to let
them know of local teachers in need. Very
appreciative of all who donated. DonorsChoose
reliped to my post when I let everyone know
that it was funded.