I have learned the value of a Professional Learning Network, and being able to learn from educators not only in my own state, but from around the globe. After having my eyes opened to the vast number of educators who have professional blogs, Twitter accounts, LinkedIn accounts, and other social networking sites, I have found valuable resources, almost all of them free, awesome websites, and even free software I can use with my students in the media center. Additionally, having a PLN has allowed me to stay on top of the latest technology tools and how to integrate them into teaching, and how to better collaborate with the teachers in my school for the benefit of the students. Before now, I wasn't as up to date on educational news or politics, but I have started following a few interesting people on Twitter, and am more aware of issues which helps me make better choices for our media center. To date, my PLN includes not only the students from EDM 510 and 310, but highly regarded media specialists, teachers, and educational specialists around the world. This network has genuinely helped me to become a better educator.
