#RuralEdChat is a chat that focuses on the needs of the rural educator. This chat has been revised by Tammy Neil (@MathNeil), John Martin (@edventures) and Natalee Stotz (@nataleestotz).
Tonight we are going to be using the Q1/A1 chat format, at least until a conversation breaks out. Don't forget to use #RuralEdChat so we can see your brilliance.
Tonight we will be talking about our Digital PLNs. Our first question will be along before Commissioner Gordon can turn on the Bat Signal. #RuralEdChat
I just consider it both. A Personal Professional Learning Network because mine is different than yours or anyone else's. No two are exactly alike. #RuralEdChat
A2: Twitter is a great way, if you know what to search for. Once you can crack into a new community, the floodgates open temporarily, but until then, it can be hard. Conferences, or just emailing the teacher in the next district over can work. A bit like cold calling #RuralEdChat
A2: One way is to start with the resources you already use. Many of the tools I use also offer online communities for support. By frequently using those communities, you can build a PLN that share that specific tool. #RuralEdChat
I'm starting to comment/get in touch with the authors more when I find blogs I like. A lot of edu blogs get small followings, so the communication is personal #RuralEdChat
A2b: With the rural silos being so far apart, many times it takes Twitter and other online sources - if there is connectivity in the rural areas.
#RuralEdChat
A3: A digital PLN opens the door to people from all over the world. You can share ideas and see how/if they correlate in other places. Maybe something someone else tries in a different state could work in your room too. Sharing is caring! #RuralEdchat
A3: Many times, face-to-face PLN are with like-minded individuals with similar experiences. The digital PLN brings a broader swath of experiences and locations.
#RuralEdChat
A3: Many times my Digital PLN feels a bit safer because I won't see them at the next faculty meeting. However, my face-to-face PLN is so much fun to hang out with and we understand our students.
#RuralEdchat
A3: Does it make sense to say slower, but more frequent? Because I can engage in bits and pieces as I have time, I make the time more often, but I also might not get back to some articles or conversations for days after they start. #RuralEdChat
** Q4 **
Is there a difference between the types of resources you get/share with your Digital PLN as opposed to your face-2-face PLN? Explain.
#RuralEdChat
A4: Hmmm. A lot of similarities for me. My online interactions more often involve sharing documents and resources, or at least, share them more quickly. In person, a lot more conversation first and exchange second. #RuralEdChat
** Q4 **
Is there a difference between the types of resources you get/share with your Digital PLN as opposed to your face-2-face PLN? Explain.
#RuralEdChat
A4: Many times there are people in my Digital PLN that don't even realize they are helping me. They've shared something that made a difference in how I teach or interact with my students. We may never actually discuss that support. ++ #RuralEdChat
** Q4 **
Is there a difference between the types of resources you get/share with your Digital PLN as opposed to your face-2-face PLN? Explain.
#RuralEdChat
A4: I feel like a lot of the resources I get from my Digital PLN is technology related or motivational. Face-2-face is typically handouts or dialogue (sharing ideas/ events.) #RuralEdchat
I try to make an effort to go back and thank people online when they've shared something I've found helpful or thought provoking. I'm always encouraged when I receive those messages, so I try to pay it forward by sending them! Plus, makes the convo 2-way #RuralEdChat
I agree, it is nice to hear those words. But there are times I grab and go. I don't always remember where I got the idea, I just know I got it from an online support. #RuralEdChat
A5: You have to decide how in-depth you take your online conversations. Are you going to be authentic or shallow? That's a choice each of us makes every time we decide to share or post. #RuralEdchat
Did you know that October was Connected Educator Month? Check out https://t.co/gtOH8xi2KW
for one way to connect with other educators around the world.
#RuralEdChat
A5: I am not sure if you can ensure that . . . but my experience has been that if they are searching out these online PLCs, typically conversations will be rich and meaningful.
#RuralEdChat
A5: Trying to follow up on links and resources people share, try to respond and continue conversations, even if it's days later. Going back to one of your answers, it's helpful that I'm more comfortable taking edu conversation risks online #RuralEdChat
I agree. There's a lot of "I want to chat!" implied in being on social media most times, which helps a lot, vs. some in-person situations, where people maybe aren't in the right mental place for PLN type conversations when you chat. #RuralEdChat
A6: I don't really think I've shared in an 'unusual' way.... I guess my first tweet was uncomfortable and out of my 'usual' routine. Does that count?! #NT2T#RuralEdchat
A6: I'll admit I've spoken to teachers in the Grocery store check out line. The one thing about educators is that we LOVE talking about our AMAZING students. #RuralEdChat
A4: Multiple face-to-face encounters outside of school setting - church, shopping, sporting events. As soon as I learn someone is an educator, I reach out.
#RuralEdChat
I carry business cards with my contact information and a QR to my Social Media links. I'm not shy about handing them out. They may never lead to a connection, but then again they just may.
#RuralEdChat
As we wrap up #RuralEdChat tonight, I encourage you to reach out to both your Digital and your f2f PLN. Helping others make those connections is important for us all. You just may be someone's Super Hero!
