We’ve created a quick list of several resources to help you begin building your PLN.

Social Media:

Twitter: If you’re looking to connect with teachers across the globe or for quick way to find and share information, Edudemic (@Edudemic) has some great articles on using Twitter to build PLNs.

• 6 Twitter Tips That Will Jumpstart Your Professional Development
• How To Get More Out Of Your PLN Using Twitter
  

Nings/ Online Communities:  Nings are online communities where members share ideas, ask questions and gain insight into new ideas. The following are some of our favorite Nings:

English Companion: “Where English teachers go to help each other”

The Educator’s PLN: This site has a plethora of professional development resources and links to blog posts relevant to current teaching issues. Navigation of this site is unique, so we’ve picked out a few suggested groups to get you started. If you don’t find a group that fits your needs, you can always start your own. This is also a great place to meet colleagues to add to your PLN.

• Elementary Educators K-8
• Build the Ideal 21^st Century School
• New Teachers

edWeb.net Digital Citizenship: Common Sense Media has recently joined forces with edWeb.net to create a community for teachers to discuss, learn and lend support on the following issues: cyber bullying, privacy, digital footprints, copyright and plagiarism, information literacy and Internet safety.

Podcasts:
Podcasts are another easy way of accessing professional development. This format is perfect for fitting in whenever you have access to your phone or tablet and perhaps a set of headphones. You can even tune in on your way to work in the morning.

Getting Smart (@Getting_Smart): A compiled short list of recommended edtech podcasts for the busy teacher: PD-Anytime- 10 Education Podcasts from EdReach

Infinite Thinking Machine (@itmshow)
“First launched in 2006, the Infinite Thinking Machine (ITM) is a high-energy Internet TV show directly targeted at K-12 educators, parents, and students. Our goal is to inspire creativity and innovation in education.”

Edu All Stars (@EduAllStarsHQ): “Podcasts with the Difference Makers in Education”
Seek out those who are making a difference in education and have thought provoking conversations with them. These conversations can open new interests and help you find new educators to join your PLN.

Teacher Blogs:

dy/dan: Day Meyer (@ddmeyer) maintains an intriguing math (junior high-high school level) blog where he explores the many avenues of student engagement and conceptual learning.

edSurge: This edtech blog (@EdSurge) covers a wide range of topics in the global edtech world. It also evaluates and rates edtech resources.

Teachthought: This blog focuses on learning that provides resources, ideas, models, frameworks and curricula.

SmartBlog on Education: This blog manages a variety of content on different topics, including trends in education and newsworthy information from around the nation.