Journal 2 (NETS-T 5)

Ferguson, H. (2010). Join the Flock. Learning With Technology, 37(8), 2-15.
Miller, S.M. (2010). Enhance your Twitter Experience. Learning & Leading with Technology, 37 (8), 14-17. Retrieved from: http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/issues/Join_the_Flock.aspx


Summary: The first article, “Join the Flock” gives a good look in how Twitter and PLN (Professional Learning Networks) work hand in hand. The article talks about how it is a great tool to use when it comes to collaborating ideas with teacher around the world. Through this article illustrates that Twitter is not a use only for “gossips”, but it can be used effectively. The author talks about how Twitter can help you keep track of certain groups or subject by using hash-tags. Hash-tags mark certain subjects or groups and you’re able to keep track of the conversation that is surrounding a particular subject or group. The most important part of this article is what the author points out, which one must be able to contribute to the network as well before expanding his or her PLN. Without contributions, you’re not helping others learn new lessons or ideas you have gained from others.

The second article, “Enhance Your Twitter Experience” explores the different tools that Twitter makes collaborations and communicating among other teachers just a bit easier for new twitters. There are great ways in maintaining communications with other by simply sharing a great website. You can share websites with multiple social networks via Twitter through HootSuite. Tweetdeck is another cool tool to help someone’s Twitter experience easier as it helps keep track of replies, social groups, and etc. Helping Twitter users organize may make things easier to follow and us.


Q1: Is PLN through Twitter different than meeting others face-to-face?

A1: Yes. Although I encourage both face-to-face communication and online communication, there are benefits that other can receive through online communication. For example, through PLN via Twitter people are able to grasp different subject questions they may have, they may receive six different ways to teach the Revolutionary War for 5th graders – from six different teachers all in one tweet. PLN is also different when it comes to meeting people in your community. For example, you may receive answers from others who come from a different culture/community and learn something really new and it may even change your perspectives teaching. Like I said I encourage face-to-face interactions among colleagues, peers, and community, but maybe you can also invite them to build their PLN to contribute to their great ideas to others out there as well.


Q2: How could one use PLN in their teaching?

A2: As an aspiring First grade teacher, I would join other PLN users who are First grade teachers. Especially for one who is just learning the playing field, I have no much to learn. And even when and if I get there, there will be more to understanding in how to help these young minds blossom. PLN is great because I could get in touch other teacher who have been there and done that and see how one teacher’s teaching can help enhance my lessons for Math, Science, Social Studies and Language Arts.