The Power of the Professional Learning Community (PLN)

What is the power behind professional learning networks (PLNs) that are everywhere to be found on Twitter? The simple graphic organizer created using the tool, Text 2 Mind Map, forms the basis for a conversation, The Power of the PLN: Making NYEDChat the Voice of NYS, that will air on 1/18/14 at 8:30 pm EST. Tune into Twitter and search for the hashtag label, #nyedchat, to either join the conversation or listen to the exchanges. Kicking off the New Year with this topic is part of a campaign, to build a network of dedicated educators committed to impacting teaching and learning in New York State. The NYEDChat moderating team of Bill Brennan, Vicki Day, Blanca Duarte, Starr Sackstein, Tony Sinanis, and Carol Varsalona have been working on a variety of topics and inviting guest speakers to bring lively discussions to the NYEDChat learning community.

You may ask, "What is the value in joining NYEDChat on Twitter every other Monday?" For those seeking ongoing learning experiences or new to Twitter, this PLN will allow for online professional development opportunities that can affect teaching and learning on a daily basis. Below are additional benefits that #nyedchat will offer to educators.  It will provide:

• A connected network for NYS educators and those joining from other states
• Discussions on current topics that impact teaching and learning
• Avenues for immediate advice and support
• Information on educational technology, teaching, learning, educational leadership, and other topics of interest
• Inspiration 
• Links to other networks, chat groups, and educational leaders

Educators who involve themselves in online networking opportunities with PLNs find the experience worthwhile. The NYEDChat Moderating Team invites you to collaborate and learn with fellow educators every other Monday. We encourage you to tweet the information to others so that NYEDChat grows in numbers to represent New York State in the Twitter community of educators across the nation. 

The true power of the PLN is in its collaborative opportunities that shift mindsets and promote a collective consciousness.