How to Build a Personal Learning Network
You've heard of Social Networking, but do you know how to leverage it for learning?
Created by Richard Byrne Free Technology for Teachers
Social Networking Options
Twitter Plurk Classroom 2.0 FriendFeed
The Twitter Option
Largest community of users. Many third-party applications including desk-top clients. Higher chance of receiving spam followers/ spam messages than with other services.
The Plurk Option
Post to multiple networks from one place. Timeline display of entries from you and your contacts. Fewer users than Twitter. Lack of third-party clients
Classroom 2.0
Built on the Ning platform. Create a comprehensive profile. Join multiple special interest groups. 99% of members are educators.
FriendFeed
Threaded Conversations. Post from and to multiple services. Create private groups for conversations. Just bought by Facebook, no word on how long the service will continue.
Step 1 - Join a Network
Complete all parts of your profile. Let people know something about you. Participate! Post a few messages. Blank profile + no posts = boring person.
Step 2 - Find People to Follow
Use the site's search tool to find people talking about things you're interested in. Follow the people others are talking to. Example: You follow "Joe." Joe talks to "Sue." Start following Sue. Search for the bloggers whose content you read. Most bloggers link to their social networks on their blogs.
Step 3 - Join In The Conversations
Creating an account, following, and posting messages isn't enough. Post responses to other people's messages. People in these networks expect to see messages from new people.
Step 4 - Start a Conversation
Post a question. Create a poll. Post a link to something interesting and or useful.
Advice From My PLN About Building a PLN
More Advice from My PLN
And even more advice...
Now Go Build Your PLN
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To find more ideas and resources about using the web for professional learning visit Free Technology for Teachers. For a quick primer on creating technology-infused lessons please view and download Twelve Essentials for Technology Integration . Contact Richard Byrne: Email - richardbyrne (at) freetech4teachers.com Twitter - rmbyrne FriendFeed - rmbyrne