Step 2: Making Connections

 In this second step you will explore tips and tools for becoming a networked teacher and making connections. The networked teacher, around a decade ago, Alec Couros created two diagrams that have been shared thousands of times. The diagram of “the networked teacher” demonstrates just some of the ways that educators can connect now that technology is at their fingertips.Note, the old ways of connecting are still here.Diagram “the networked teacher” The brother of Alec, reminds us that the arrows go back and forth and it’s not only about what you consume but what you create. You can give as well as receive.
 Other topics: What tools are used? Teachers from all over the globe are online and learning together, but where exactly do you find these teachers and develop working relationships with them? In a 2016 study called “Together we are better:Professional Learning Networks for Teachers”, k-12 (hasta 12 años) teachers were asked how they use PLNs. The most popular tool in the example was Twitter with 53% of participants indicating that they used this tool to connect with others. Other popular tools listed in the survey included blogs, Edmodo, Google+, Facebook, Discovery Education Network, and Pinterest. 84% of survey participants indicated that they use more than one medium or site.
And How are teachers connecting on online platforms? Teachers are using social media and other online spaces in a variety of ways to connect with their PLN. Here, there are ten examples: Twitter , Educators follow people they are interested in, ranging from “thought leaders” to everyday teachers in a similar subject area or age group. Facebook, Educators follow pages and profiles of people and businesses involved in education. Instagram, You can follow Educators to get new ideas for lessons, activities,learning spaces and more. Pinterest, it is becoming a go-to for many Educators looking for fresh ideas, resources and connections. Google+, There are all sorts of Google+ communities for educators where you connect, learn and share. Blogs, blogs play an important role in most educator’s PLNs.This might include reading blogs from a variety of different people or writing your own blog.