Just Use Something

Social Media is bringing together educators from all over the world.  These connections enable teachers to gain new knowledge and ideas. Personally, I would be lost without the ideas I have learned on social media. With a click of a button there is a wealth of knowledge available on a variety of topics: bulletin boards, classroom organization, projects, technology information and an assortment of tips and advice.

There are many options when it comes to social media. Pinterest, blogs, Twitter and Facebook are all great options.  I am partial to Twitter and Pinterest, but I also belong to Faceobok Groups for teachers and read many blogs.  I hear many teachers say one platform or another does not work for them.  The great thing about the technology we have is there are many different options that can fit individual preference.  As teachers, I believe we have a responsibility to our students and communities to be up to date on the most current information and to be open to new ideas.  This being said, just use something! It is easy to get caught up in a certain social media platform.  The ultimate goal is continued learning and providing the best possible education for our students.  As long as the platform you use achieves this goal, which platform you use is less important.

Remember that social media is about being social.  Therefore, relationships need to be created in order to reap the rewards.  I hear many people say they don't understand Twitter, but at the same time they have not invested time into creating relationships.  As a newbie to Twitter I almost did the same thing and it was not until I started participating in chats that I created relationships.  These relationships are when the best learning happens.  As with most things in life; you get out of it, how much you put in.

Which social media platforms do you use for professional development?  Do you have a favorite?

Remember: Just Use Something! Get online and learn from other amazing educators.