Journal 2 (NETS-T III & 5)

Ferguson, H. (2010). Join the flock. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(8), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/issues/Join_the_Flock.aspx


Summary: The simple word of Twitter and the acronym PLN can be anything but simple to some. This article indulges into the word of building a professional learning network through the use of Twitter. This tool can actually help to build a community based on communication and collaboration to share ideas and insight to better our schools and educators. The first step is to set up a free account then learn how to follow and develop a list of people to watch and listen. Giving into the conversations and contributing may take time but enhances the experience once the user is ready and comfortable. There are many different resources and information materials available on how to make the most out of tweeting. Through proper use and developed customs, a professional learning network can be established through the convenience of your very own personal computer. Links, tools, and important information can be distributed to all who are interested in hope that educators have a way to work through their previous frustrations of thinking, “I wish more teachers knew about this…”


Question 1: How can a math teacher use Twitter to enhance his or her classroom?
A1: Despite the subject, all classrooms could have twitter as a part of the daily homework assignment. For example, all students could be required to have a Twitter account in which they are to Tweet about the week’s lessons as a whole, or the lessons daily. This can help the students to express what they liked and what they are struggling with.

Question 2 :Should all teachers be able to Tweet freely?
A2: There has actually been teachers in the news lately who have found themselves in trouble after tweeting whatever comes to mind. As in any situation, even though we are given the freedom of speech, we all are representing the educational sector therefore we need to be cautious of what is being said to the public.