A professional learning network is a vibrant, ever-changing group of connections to which teachers go to both share and learn. These groups reflect our values, passions, and areas of expertise.
Teachers build PLNs the same way they make any network: investing time to find and connect with people they trust who have shared interests and passions. A PLN includes the organizations, communities, and individuals who help me learn and grow as a professional. My PLN also provides a broader perspective on education—beyond my classroom, school building, state, and even nation. It is a blend of face-to-face and digital interactions with professional buddies, mentors, and rockstars.
Some of my favorite groups:
• ASCD is a passionate community of life-changing educators. Their professional learning services let educators chart their learning journey as educators and leaders, so they and their students can flourish.
• The Center for Teaching Quality is a good resource for creative teaching. They personalize professional learning, build virtual communication, develop collective; leadership, support educator storytelling, and redesign education systems.
National Board Certification is the most respected professional certification available in education and benefits teachers, students, and schools. It was designed to develop, retain, and recognize accomplished teachers and generate ongoing nationwide improvement in schools.
• Edutopia
Edutopia is a trusted source shining a spotlight on what works in education. This foundation is dedicated to transforming K-12 education so that all students can acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to thrive in their studies, careers, and adult lives. Innovative and award-winning filmmaker George Lucas founded them in 1991.
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