Key Concept 16:
Professional Advancement
16.1 Candidates will be able to actively engage in professional learning networks (PLN) to collaborate and share ideas and resources with colleagues.
As a teacher, I am currently an active member of a professional learning network (PLN). I created this website as a resource for other professionals to use to learn about PLNs. First, it provides an overview and teaches others what a PLN is and how to create a one. Next, I provided viewers with information regarding how to find and join other PLNs on different social media platforms. Finally, under the "My Personal PLN" tab, you will find a list of (just some) of the connections I've made within my own PLN. On Twitter and Instagram, you will find 10 educators on each platform with whom I connect with on a professional level. My PLN continues to grow and allows me to collaborate and share ideas and resources with other educators.
16.2 Candidates will be able to determine and implement the best approaches to improving their technology integration efforts through a continual process of self-evaluation and reflection.
In ET 660, I had to create a presentation titled, "Defining an Innovative School." This was an ongoing assignment that lasted all semester. For each part of the assignment, I had to include new ideas and findings based upon research found in readings and videos to continuously update my definition of an innovative school. I also received feedback from my peers throughout the course of creating this project. As I collected more information, I had to continuously reflect on my original definition to come up with and finalize one last complete definition to turn in at the end of the semester. This project showcases how my definition changed and developed over time as I was exposed to more information regarding innovative schools. This project helped me to gain a better understanding of what innovation means in the 21st century learning environment. I plan to use this information as I continue to grow as a teacher. My hope is that I can work to develop and create engaging and innovative activities that can promote meaningful learning opportunities for my current and future students.