Whatever your time zone, #nt2t starts now!
In today's chat, we will discuss forums -- taking global forums such as #Davos2018 and relating them to our use of Twitter in education. If you're joining us or just following along, tell us where you're from and a little about yourself.
I'm Jeremy, a parent in Connecticut involved in education. Proud to say two of my fellow @ParentCamp Board members brought ParentCamps to their districts this week: @SPSantilli in New Jersey and @juliepile in Kentucky, where #ParentCampNKY is beginning right now as we chat! #nt2t
Professional learning Tweetstorm brewing at this hour thanks to #nt2t, #edugladiators, #BookcampPD. In eye of storm, I'm Brian. I teach MS students English in CO.
Here we go!
Q1) Forums are events where leaders and influential players come together to discuss issues and propose solutions. What topics and issues should we teachers be tackling on Twitter? (whether you're a teacher by training and trade, or a parent or lifelong learner) #nt2t
Right now I am in the middle of planning a HUGE educational forum...#edcampSTL happens on 2/10 We have over 650 people registered! Would love to see some #NT2t friends join us! https://t.co/Z39faARucf
I am in Chicago area. I hosted #Tutor/Mentor networking conference every six months from May 94 to May 2015. Never was able to bring that group into online community. #nt2t
Right now I am in the middle of planning a HUGE educational forum...#edcampSTL happens on 2/10 We have over 650 people registered! Would love to see some #NT2t friends join us! https://t.co/Z39faARucf
A1 Twitter as potluck <@AngelaMaiers Creates mindset of sharing & sampling deliciously useful practices/resources as 1 purpose that's simultaneously enjoyable, productive, not typically fraught. #nt2t
A1: I would love to see/hear educators discuss more of the "big" topics that affect our students, like poverty, inequality in ed, lack of community/family, etc. We need global perspectives to tackle these issues that will make a huge impact on our kids #NT2t
Here we go!
Q1) Forums are events where leaders and influential players come together to discuss issues and propose solutions. What topics and issues should we teachers be tackling on Twitter? (whether you're a teacher by training and trade, or a parent or lifelong learner) #nt2t
Here we go!
Q1) Forums are events where leaders and influential players come together to discuss issues and propose solutions. What topics and issues should we teachers be tackling on Twitter? (whether you're a teacher by training and trade, or a parent or lifelong learner) #nt2t
Here we go!
Q1) Forums are events where leaders and influential players come together to discuss issues and propose solutions. What topics and issues should we teachers be tackling on Twitter? (whether you're a teacher by training and trade, or a parent or lifelong learner) #nt2t
A1 The great thing about Twitter is that it's open to any topic. So, educators need not feel restricted. You can reach out to experts and discuss personal subjects such as safe schools and bullying online and off. You won't know if you don't talk among yourselves. #NT2t
A1: I think we have reached a critical stage in new teacher recruitment. I would love to tackle this issue in the future! #nt2t This is near and dear to my heart! ❤️
A1: Think it doesn't matter if it's a big problem or not - a forum is a place where you can discuss pros and cons, listen to others who have experience, ... #nt2t
A1 On the personal level "How can we do more to help our kids?" On larger level, "How do we help kids in poverty areas have the supports they need?" #nt2t
Oh yes Valerie! Considering teachers are staying in the profession for 5 years or less should be very disconcerting to all of us. I wonder if this holds true globally as well. #NT2t
We were just talking last week I think about being able to have these kinds of conversations with those who disagree with us, hopefully benefiting everyone by learning from other's experiences/expertise. #nt2t
Q2) Forums are accused of being exclusive and unrepresentative of the general public. How can we help represent the diversity of our students on Twitter? #nt2t
A1: I would love to see/hear educators discuss more of the "big" topics that affect our students, like poverty, inequality in ed, lack of community/family, etc. We need global perspectives to tackle these issues that will make a huge impact on our kids #NT2t
As a 'new' teacher (last year was my first year out of college, but now a stay at home mom...surprise!), do you think that districts struggle with recruitment? Or that there is too much emphasis on it? #nt2t
A1 The great thing about Twitter is that it's open to any topic. So, educators need not feel restricted. You can reach out to experts and discuss personal subjects such as safe schools and bullying online and off. You won't know if you don't talk among yourselves. #NT2t
So how can we tackle this globally? I am a true believer that we are #BetterTogether Platforms like Twitter can be key in making these discussions happen. #NT2t
A1. I use maps to show areas of poverty, where kids, schools, families need more help. Too few using maps this way. I share map stories at https://t.co/32OgUaNULa#nt2t
A1: I almost feel that 'ed issues' and 'social issues', while inextricably linked, are two different discussions for two different forums. Or perhaps a third forum to discuss both. So, one forum for culture, race, SES, and one for standardized testing, technology, etc. #nt2t
Q2) Forums are accused of being exclusive and unrepresentative of the general public. How can we help represent the diversity of our students on Twitter? #nt2t
When the bigger topics do come out, many people get very quiet at once. Why are we so afraid to discuss openly? Do we fear how we might look "politically?" #NT2t
Thanks! It's interesting that you say that. Maybe it's just because those in my circles are teachers, moms, or nice people, but I haven't heard much about that sort of negativity. But I absolutely agree that recruitment should be a thing...although perhaps sooner! #nt2t
A1: I almost feel that 'ed issues' and 'social issues', while inextricably linked, are two different discussions for two different forums. Or perhaps a third forum to discuss both. So, one forum for culture, race, SES, and one for standardized testing, technology, etc. #nt2t
Starting when they are in grade school, so that they will consider going to college to become a teacher! Ours is a profession that you typically need the full training and degree in, as opposed to other careers that you could get with the 'wrong' degree. #nt2t
A2 Forums might get a bad name from their name. The word has an exclusivity ring to it as opposed to meeting or even conference. Different words can lead to different mindsets and make them more welcoming for topics from and participation by the general public and students. #NT2t
Absolutely! Social issues arguably rank higher than ed issues in regards to topics that need to be addressed and discussed. Perhaps that would be another benefit to 'dividing' the types of forums for those discussions...better focus on each? #nt2t
A1: I have attended events where organizations say "follow and post on Twitter" however only a small percent of participants actually do this. I've not seen any articles showing where the f2f is well supported online. Have you? #nt2t
A2: By giving our students voice through Twitter! Esp with the young ones, they often feel unheard or ineffective bc they are 'just a kid'. Twitter can give them a voice and a platform, even if anonymously through a class account. #nt2t
Q2) Forums are accused of being exclusive and unrepresentative of the general public. How can we help represent the diversity of our students on Twitter? #nt2t
A2 May require face-to-face, 1-on-1 reaching out to talk with & then invite voices at first opting out of forum opportunities. Personal touch 1st, tech pieces maybe later. #nt2t
Yes, I remember many FL counties being at every recruitment fair. It's a vicious cycle...teacher shortage leads to bad district/school reputations, leads to lack of desire to work there, leads to teacher shortage. :( #nt2t
Q3) In international forums, it's usually a small group of execs who decide on the agenda. Who should decide on the agenda for Twitter in the classroom? #nt2t
Perhaps, and we need to establish which "positions" must be universal and not political. E.g.,why should fighting for LGBTQ students be considered a political stance and not simply supporting the kids you're in the field to serve? #nt2t
When the bigger topics do come out, many people get very quiet at once. Why are we so afraid to discuss openly? Do we fear how we might look "politically?" #NT2t
Boom!!! 👇 You hit the nail on the head Rebecca. The first step in changing the culture is to identify your role in adding to or solving the problem. Until that happens, nothing will change. #NT2t
People get quiet because we are forced to look at ourselves to ask how we are either part of the problem or part of the solution. What biases, prejudices, & world views do we have of those struggling with poverty, immigrants, etc. It’s as much about ourselves as it is the issues
A2. In Twitter forum everyone has chance to talk & view ideas of all others. At f2f events, only a few talk and you only connect w a small portion of attendees. For instance, if 8 workshops are in a time frame, you can only attend one. #NT2t
A3 Students, parents, teachers and administrators all need input about Twitter in the classroom. Each player has a stake, neither Twitter nor any other venture will succeed without buy-in from participants. It all comes back to communication from Day 1. #NT2t
Wow -- insightful discussion here. It does seem they're thrown off when you want to stick around a while. Don't think it's nefarious; the mindset isn't there. They think they're not set up for it. #nt2t
A1: I have attended events where organizations say "follow and post on Twitter" however only a small percent of participants actually do this. I've not seen any articles showing where the f2f is well supported online. Have you? #nt2t
YES! That is the problem where I am as well. Teacher recruitment is high bc they offer extremely competitive starting salaries, but the steps are so small (or non-existent in some counties), and teachers are leaving bc of that, and lack of resources. #nt2t
It's a very densely populated area (DC sprawl), and so the supply usually well outweigh the demand. We also have a lot of ELLs that need extra resources. #nt2t
Question 4 will be posted shortly and is about grassroots movements. You don't need to have followed Davos. Your perspective is valued as a person on Twitter! #nt2t
Thought project: CAN we fix people though? Or can we only fix policies to force those who won't change to at least adhere to a policy (whether they like it or not)? #nt2t
Q4) There are usually crowds of protesters outside forums like Davos, calling for attention to more grassroots concerns. How can we use Twitter to help those grassroots movements? #nt2t
A2: They have to trust us to engage with us. Whether in a forum setting or in daily interaction. The quest should be, “how are we building trust with diverse populations so that we can all engage with each other, no matter the venue?” #nt2t
On the other hand, it's a good way to reach out to those with the same interests. Not everyone has the opportunity to the same access to technology, though. Or knows twitter. #nt2t
It really depends on the event and those who are present. I too have been at conferences where there is a # but no one posts anything. More of a reflection of those attending, but event planners should be posting. #NT2t
For my money, chats centered on how yield practical tips & tools; chats emphasizing why cultivate theoretical reflecting. Both add value; I appreciate knowing what I'm getting into & what I hope to leave with. #nt2t
A3: Ideally, the parents and students. They are often the stakeholders most ignored, and yet the most invested in our supposed goal of educating and growing children. #nt2t
Q3) In international forums, it's usually a small group of execs who decide on the agenda. Who should decide on the agenda for Twitter in the classroom? #nt2t
Think it all starts with the relationship that is built and how much each trusts each other. That kind of relationship takes work and can't be faked. #NT2t
A3 Co-created & iterated. Whoever sets the agenda, say, for Twitter classroom stream will benefit from being sensitive/responsive to audience reactions -- or lack thereof. #nt2t
I think mind-set and past experience or lack of, contributes to this. Many event organizes my not have wide social media background, thus don't build it into their strategy. #nt2t
Around here, the starting salary is extremely low, especially in rural areas ($24,000 first year) and most have to work 2 jobs. No way I would stick with it. #NT2t
A3 Students, parents, teachers and administrators all need input about Twitter in the classroom. Each player has a stake, neither Twitter nor any other venture will succeed without buy-in from participants. It all comes back to communication from Day 1. #NT2t
A4 Protesters are players in political movements, which is tricky territory for educators seen as removed from the fray. Address grassroots concerns via Twitter or otherwise to emphasize the positive aspects of what you do. Engage with solutions. #NT2t
Wow, I feel very blessed now in the area I live in. Teachers still make less than the average income, and there are still 'on a teacher's salary' comments, but I made twice that my first year. #nt2t
Just 20 minutes until #teaching4IR chat! Today we'll be talking about teacher education - now and in the future. Join our authors for a discussion on this important topic. #nt2t#pretchat#21stedchat
Which is why my area struggles with retaining teachers rather than recruiting. It's a very desirable area for college grads, with high starting pay, but the raises are laughable. Can't stay in this $$$ area for very long on the same salary... #nt2t
I'd rather think of it in terms or responsibility rather than blame. But it all comes to the same, we're uncomfortable when we have to look at ourselves and see ourselves reflected in others. #nt2t
You need to reach out as best you can and not be Twitter-exclusive. My Family and friends are on Facebook. Just as you need to be open minded on Twitter, you need to be flexible and welcoming on any channel that offers connections. #NT2t
Q2) Forums are accused of being exclusive and unrepresentative of the general public. How can we help represent the diversity of our students on Twitter? #nt2t
Teaching has changed so much since I began 27 years ago...and not for the better. I know there are pockets of amazing things happening all over, but their voices are silenced by the negativity. #NT2t
Twitter has been an eye-opener for me and I'm connecting with educators around the world. It's all about making these type of connections that bring attention to issues that we face as educators #nt2t#conversechat
It is out of control everywhere. But in some areas it's more visible. Labor trafficking is bigger than sex trafficking, but the latter gets the attention. You can do a great part by creating awareness and in purchasing choices. #nt2t
I guess I don't see the negativity, 1. because I'm out of the classroom (after such a short time in it) and 2. because I am on Twitter, go to Edcamps, etc...I see the positive, new happenings! #nt2t
Thanks for being alert to these issues and caring. I hear many educators complain about their student's performance but no little about their backstory. The #youngcarers situation is huge, too, we just don't identify it - yet. #nt2t
Great point Lillian. So at what point does feeling uncomfortable get put aside and taking action occur? What can we do to facilitate this process? #NT2t
I'd rather think of it in terms or responsibility rather than blame. But it all comes to the same, we're uncomfortable when we have to look at ourselves and see ourselves reflected in others. #nt2t
I really understand. But I think the problem is nut the teaching, the problem is the system which creates boundaries, loads of bureaucracy and demands in the same time more engagement. #nt2t
I think most conferences are planned as "stand alone" events rather than as actions on a time line aimed at a particular goal. Thus little effort to encourage, or support, connections after the event. #nt2t
A5 Twitter is a great -- but not the only channel -- to push out classroom discussions. You have to know your audience and where your audience is. Twitter is just one tactic in a communication strategy that can include, Facebook, email, texts and, yes, even newsletters. #NT2t
Took my daughters to the local #WomensMarch last weekend and one of my middle schooler's teachers was there protesting. When we greeted her, she said, "I'm glad you're here." When you think about it, that can mean a lot of things: E.g., I'm glad you're engaged. #nt2t
A4 Protesters are players in political movements, which is tricky territory for educators seen as removed from the fray. Address grassroots concerns via Twitter or otherwise to emphasize the positive aspects of what you do. Engage with solutions. #NT2t
I need to work on the creating awareness more for sure and make sure my purchasing choices are thoughtful. Guess I am getting at that age where I am getting antsy for real change. #NT2t
I think mind-set and past experience or lack of, contributes to this. Many event organizes my not have wide social media background, thus don't build it into their strategy. #nt2t
A5 Tactical, effective use of Twitter & other SM can open convo to bigger audiences, potentially including experts on given topic, wider cross-section of voices in myriad places/times. While not all unicorns/rainbows, these pros outweigh cons in my estimation. #nt2t
You may respond to the following challenge now, or anytime you think of something over the next week:
Think about a topic for which you would like to engage others this week. Post the topic to Twitter and include #nt2t in your post.
As someone who was part of the foster care system I get it and am acutely sensitive to kids and their backstory. As educators, we MUST know the backstory. #NT2t
A5: To discuss with a (much) larger audience. Our schools and communities, are limited by experience, demographic, and education. Talking to a much broader contingency adds so much to a conversation! #nt2t
A4 We must connect with these grassroots and inform them of the effectiveness of Twitter and how their voices will be heard globally and with others that share their same concerns. #nt2t#conversechat
Most of the teachers they have either stay because they can't be hired anywhere else or stay for a year to get experience and move on. There ARE some incredible ones, but they are far and few in between. #NT2t
Yes -- you can't announce the hashtag (or worse, not announce it) and assume it'll take off. You need an army prepared to fill the empty space -- during the event as well as after. #mediachat#nt2t
I host web library and ideas at https://t.co/85UGitcYDB Started it in 1998. Browse sit like first time at shopping mall. Go back later into sections of interest. I use blog & social media to reflect on ideas in the library. #nt2t
A5: We need to push these discussion outside of the safety of the 4 classroom (or school) walls. Students need to know there is a huge world out there and together we can solve even the biggest problems that face all of us. #NT2t#BetterTogether
Q4 A1
To continue to tweet to keep it in the for front. Continue to talk about it and not let it get pushed aside. The grassroots are only as big as we make it. It's up to us to keep it going.
#Gen210E
Networked learning for teachers! Networked learning for students! Even for parents and admins! Our social ecosystem can be one of education, if we choose to make it that way. #nt2t
Ahhh! Spot on. But why are educators so resistant to learning and doing about these issues? At least that's what I find here. Foster care! Another important piece. @SaintAorg is a favorite "go-to" to learn more about this. #nt2t
Twitter has been an eye-opener for me and I'm connecting with educators around the world. It's all about making these type of connections that bring attention to issues that we face as educators #nt2t#conversechat
A4 Build web library of relavant links, then point to this in your Tweets. Need to move beyond small bites to deeper learning. While teachers focus on class room, the world is a real life library.
When it comes down to it, the time it takes to build the relationships that are truly needed just isn't there, not when you have a whole curriculum & schedule to keep. Instead of focusing on whole child we focus on testing. #NT2t
Thought project: CAN we fix people though? Or can we only fix policies to force those who won't change to at least adhere to a policy (whether they like it or not)? #nt2t
