Professional Learning Networks Designed for Teacher Learning

Trust, T. (2012). Professional Learning Networks Designed for Teacher Learning. Journal of Digital Learning in Teacher Education, 28(4), 133-138.

Summary

This article talks about PLNs, Professional Learning Networks, specifically for teachers. PLNs allow teachers to connect and learn from  other teachers all over the world. Teachers share their collective wisdom in these forums, find resources, provide support and advice to each other, as well as chances to collaborate with one another.  The author emphasizes that teachers must model for students collaboration with others, continual learning and studying of best practices.  PLN's can take two forms, information aggregation such as following other educators via blogs and websites, or by using social media such as Twitter and Facebook. Three popular PLNs that combine information aggregation and social media are described in detail: Edmodo, Classroom 2.0, and The Educator's PLN. 

Although all three of these PLNs were mentioned positively, the author seemed to highlight Edmodo in particular for its streamlined layout, large membership numbers, 6.5 million, and its ability to let teachers create groups for their classes. Teachers are also notified of discussions and posts through their email, they dont have to be logged on to Edmodo. 

The author notes that utilizing PLNs shows "adaptive expertise," which allows teachers to be flexible and thrive despite changes they face. Reflective teachers continually improve their craft, and participating in PLNs greatly enhance this practice.

Reflection/Application

This article was helpful to read, and quite timely! I have been fairly good about staying abreast of things in the educational world by reading weekly newsletters and blogs, articles, etc. To a lesser degree I have done the same with ed tech topics. But I have not been using social media to tap into collective wisdom, ask questions, problem solve, exchange resources. And I just always thought Edmodo was for students! I didn't realize there was this whole teacher focused dimension/community to it.  Amy touched on this aspect of Edmodo in one of her postings, and explained that this existed...so reading this article now comes at the perfect time. 

I was also pretty struck by the "adaptive expertise" points, how these social communities can really help a teacher's practice improve. Because you have the ability to ask questions and also learn about other teachers struggles and findings, its only logical that this would promote professional   growth. I'm already wondering about how I can share this information with our teachers at my school. I need to participate in a PLN myself first, although perhaps giving everyone a copy of the article would be a place to start.