PLN examples

A PLN (Personal Learning Network) is an online environment used by educators as a collaborative tool of connectivism. It allows for a continued focus on learning through the sharing of ideas and resources, collaboration and communication, and building of relationships and networking with active participants who are engaged in the enhancement of the learning experience.

In my learning experiences as a student I have always enjoyed engaging with Edmodo as a tool of communication with teachers and peers. Operating in a education version of 'facebook', Edmodo focuses on the interaction of online learning through tasks and forums while opening an easily accessible channel of communication. It is easy to use and if everyone actively participates, it can become a worthwhile and efficient tool.

Pinterest is the hub for most 'free' education inspiration on the internet. It breeds a culture of connectivism and creativity as users post and search through relevant information. It's easy layout allows users to type in key words into the search bar, and view a thread of relevant visual links and pictures. Once a link has been clicked users can further delve into a particular niche by scrolling through similar links that have been collated because of that chosen picture. Always worthwhile when planning creative 'inquiry based' lessons.

Education HQ is an online magazine and environment that allows teachers to stay updated with latest educational news and events, engage with different associations and services available, look at schools and careers (including teaching in the UK), and resources accessible, relevant and used Australia wide. I was introduced to this site on practicum and found it exceedingly worthwhile to bookmark as it has introduced me to many more networks and resources that I have now used in my teaching.