Professional Learning Networks
- rachhull
- Mar 9, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 13, 2022
“ If you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it.”
Margaret Fuller
Reflecting on past PLNs reminded me of the learning experiences and connections that have been most impactful to my career.
One of the best PLNs I was a part of was with the Thinkery, a children’s museum here in Austin. While at the museum with her kids my friend saw that they were hosting something called EdExchange for teachers and she recommended it to me. It was a really wonderful learning experience that connected me with other STEM teachers. I learned about 3D printing, stop motion, soldering, and coding. I also learned what raspberry pi is. After the 6 week PD, we had support from the museum staff and a Facebook group was formed to keep the educators from different schools connected after the programs end to share STEM activities. This was hands down the best learning experience in my career and the most fun.
In 2017, I participated in an SEL yoga training for teachers with Breathe for Change. This was a very good experience and came at a time I was experiencing burnout. I met teachers from all over the US and here in Texas. They provide lessons on their website. https://www.breatheforchange.com/
I’m always on the lookout for new learning opportunities in the area. The McDonald Observatory in the Davis Mountains is offering summer PD on exploring the solar system. Sadly, I didn’t get in and I won’t be able to stargaze in the dark night skies this summer. I will apply again next year.
This assignment really made me think about all the past PLNs I have been a part of, the PLNs I am currently a part of, PLNs I might need to utilize more consistently, and PLNs I might want to become a part of.
After reading the article, 4 Ways to Build a Strong Learning Network for Innovation and Growth, I decided to use their suggestions. Diversify your network, focus on an essential question, find a network that goes beyond one and done, and find a place that supports your social and emotional well-being.
One PLN that I am a part of that I am not as active as I want to be in, is the New Tech Network. I am lucky to be a part of it, so I will make more of an effort. The network provides opportunities to see other teacher’s projects and to share your PBLs as well. Something new they have created is a Slack channel, so I asked to be added to it. There are schools in the network from all over the US who are dedicated to project based learning. They are also offering some virtual PD this summer I am looking into.
My innovation project is on blended learning, so I searched for a group that focuses on blended learning and I found some online opportunities with UTeach.
These are self-paced free learning courses for educators. I am looking into how I can be connected with other teachers participating. I wanted to share because they look well-designed and I want to know more about blended learning. I also found a facebook group.
More than anything I wish I was attending SXSW edu in person. They have amazing keynote speakers and it is an all around great learning opportunity. I don’t want to take the time away from students, so I plan on attending some of the virtual sessions. If you are in the Austin area this is an event held every year. If you are not in the area, you can attend virtually.
TCEA is another PLN that I am going to focus on participating and connecting more in. Every Wednesday they have lunch and learn webinars I can watch. I am a member and receive email updates weekly on learning opportunities. Also, I plan on listening to their podcast.
This is a vlog that got me through virtual teaching that I still like to visit.
I believe my networks are diversified, most of them are not one and done. The question I am targeting currently is, how can I learn more about blended learning? Also, how can I connect with those who have had success with this learning model? I am not sure that any of the above communities support social emotional well being. Breathe for Change is a great place for free yoga classes online and some SEL for the classroom.
Also, yoga with Adriene is free and amazing on youtube.
Yoga for Adriene isn’t really a PLN, but I wanted to include it for anyone needing some self-care. If you fill your own bucket, then you can be more of a contributor to SEL in your own classroom.
In conclusion, PLNs have been a major part of my career and will continue to be. I plan on being more strategic in the ones I want to invest more of my time in consuming and contributing.
More than ever, we need to connect with others who can help us find the innovative solutions and opportunities hidden within this disruption of education-as-usual. (Pattenhouse, 2021)
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