23 Resources about Personal Learning Networks (PLNs)

Part of the Cool Sites series For the past year, I have researched the what, who, when, how, and why of Personal/Professional/Passionate Learning Networks (PLNs). We have seen the benefits of the people we choose to connect, collaborate, and problem solve with through social media. A community raises a child! Below are several resources I have collected about the history of PLNs, how to build a PLN, and the tools needed to build a PLN. We Connect Wiki- This wiki is full of videos, Wallwishers, Wikipedia articles, and more that help educators find the resources to build a PLN. Wikipedia article about PLNs- This article explains the history and theory behind PLNs. Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age by George Siemens- Siemens is noted as one of the forerunners behind the PLN movement. Origins of the Term ‘Personal Learning Network’ by Stephen Downes- Downes is another forerunner of the PLN movement and connectivism. Why Do We Connect? How To Build Your PLN Using Twitter

Blogging Tips for Teachers What’s Here This page shares ideas for educators to use in creating websites with teaching resources. Learn how to set up and design your blog, create strong content, build a following online, and more! These tips are based on my own personal experience with running a website for teachers since July 2003–almost a decade! Setting Up Your Blog The first step to setting your blog apart: always write about something you know and truly care about. Choose your blogging platform carefully. Pick a great template. Choose a niche or focus for your blog . Be cautious of using your grade level as your niche. Google your blog title and niche before going live with it. Creating Strong Blog Content The phrase I live by is content is king. Many bloggers spend too much time focusing on promoting their blogs and not enough time writing stuff people want to read. Don’t stress over posting on a regular schedule. Stay true to your voice. How to Come Up with Blog Post Ideas