Social media can be a great way for educators to create PLN's to increase their knowledge in many areas. Listed below are some social media that I have used.
Facebook: I have had a Facebook account for several years. I believe that it is a great way to stay in contact with others. I think that it would be great media to inform parents of dates and events within your school. I like that you can live miles away from family and friends and still stay in contact. I am still searching for a way to use it more professionally and really build my knowledge.
Pinterest: Pinterest is a growing community of shared ideas and thoughts. I have been a member about 3 years and continue to really enjoy the benefits of Pinterest, not only by finding new recipes and craft ideas, but also for links to new early childhood blogs that I enjoy reading. I have searched and found many new ideas for teaching concepts in other ways that I know. This can be helpful for reteaching concepts or just thinking of a "better way" to do something. I recently did a search on Pinterest for communication board ideas for autistic children. I had an endless supply of new fresh ideas and links to create communication boards. I have also found great packets of common core curriculum ideas for teaching kindergarten math and ELA. These are creative ideas that my students love to do. Pinterest seems to be an on going resource for new fresh ideas.
Twitter: The newest social media that I have started using is Twitter. It took me awhile to get started using it, just because it was so different and seemed to be such an overwhelming place. I started using Twitter a few months ago, but just started really "using" Twitter the past month. I am amazed at the amount of professional articles that you can find on Twitter. I really enjoy not only looking for early childhood resources, but also great faith based articles as well. I believe that Twitter has the best options professionally. Don't have a Twitter account? Feel free to roam around online and just explore before you create an account. I believe the best way to really get to use Twitter is just exploring with it!
What kinds of social media do you like to use to stay socially networked?
Great list of resources, Amanda! Thanks for sharing. I like the research you did for Autism - certainly a need we have :) - I would be interested in finding out how it helped you in the classroom.
ReplyDeleteAmanda, I also enjoy using Pinterest, twitter and facebook. I am new to all three of these. There are some great ideas out there. Have you seen the cool ideas for easter for children? Lots of great crafts to use in the classroom.
ReplyDeleteI agree that Twitter is a great professional learning environment. I have really enjoyed exploring more with it the past few months. I am starting to become more comfortable with it and have followed some great people and organizations that have given me so many resources!
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