Twitter for Teachers-Part 1

Trust me on this, Twitter is a great resource for educators! I didn't "get" Twitter for a long time. The more I play around with Twitter, the more I realize I am receiving some of the best PD right from the comfort of my own couch! 

Educators from around the world share resources from their school districts, educational articles, YouTube videos they've created for their classrooms, pictures of happenings within their schools, participate in policy discussions and SO much more. Discussions are sparked and conversations are had amongst this vibrant community of learners. I have been building up my Personal Learning Network (PLN) through Twitter chats. This is the essential way to really delve into this community.  I have noticed that Twitter chats slow down a bit in the summer, not as many participants, but it should really pick back up in August. I found myself looking forward to my Wednesday night chats with the #1to1techat crew! 

Check out the basics of Twitter. What is a handle, a hashtag, and some other suggestions for Twitter chats. This is another great blog post that decodes an actual tweet. They can be VERY confusing!


Here are a couple steps I suggest to start with if you're ready to give Twitter a try:

1. Sign up for an account-You can't really do much without an account ;) I read an article that discussed the importance of including your full name with your account. People will be able to find you easily and definitely personalize your profile with a picture and a little blurb about yourself.

2. Download the Twitter app-There are many other apps out there that help you organize your Tweets and things you're reading, but for now stick with just the regular app.

3. Check out some of the educational hashtags to see what people are talking about. I suggest #edtech  #edtechchat  #1to1techat  #patue 

Take a look at Weekly Educational Twitter Chats which lists ongoing chats. Take a couple weeks to lurk and then one day you'll find yourself participating! 

4. As you come across educators that you find are interesting, hit that Follow button and start listening to what they have to say and take advantage of the resources they share!

I'm encouraging you to sign up for an account and start lurking. It'll be worth your while. Once you decide to jump into a chat, you will be sucked into this enriching world of Twitter. This post is only Part 1 of Twitter for Teachers, look for more exciting posts from the tech committee!

~Cassidy