ppt for module iii project - lec
DESCRIPTION
PLN projectTRANSCRIPT
Moving Towards
PLN’s
Presented by Dr. Lisa GonzalesDirector – STEAMSanta Clara COE
Professional Learning Networks( PLN’s )
PLN’s are informal networks that consist of teachers at learners
The intent is to have teachers purposefully connect with others around a specific topic
PLN’s come from “connectivism” research conducted by George Siemens and Stephen Downes
Learners create connections and develop a network that supports their professional development and knowledge
The learning is generally “web” based
Why PLN’s ???
Fits with culture of district I’m supporting
New strategic plan, soon to be completed, highlights teachers and professional development in creative ways
Can be used to expand knowledge of Project Based Learning (PBL)
Can be used as a model for districts this one works with
Reinforces creative use of technology
Teachers have choices for platforms: Twitter, LinkedIn groups, Edmodo, Pinterest, blogs, YouTube, The Teaching Channel
Current Status?
• Strategic plan calls out need to focus on student learning via PBL
• Teachers are accustomed to differentiated professional development
• Staff loves tech but could use structure around its use, which PLN’s provide
• Most teachers are eager, parents are supportive, principals are connected, Board wants to be more on the cutting edge
• Union leadership is pushing this direction
Action Plan Steps
Evidence from Readings/Videos
Alan November’s TED Talk speaks to the use of technology to solve real world problems, which can be identified in the PBL process, the focus on the PLN project
Mitchell Kapor argued that getting info from the Internet is like drinking out of a fire hose – a focused approach of PLN’s will help teachers sift through articles and data
Evidence from Readings/Videos
Rick DuFour’s articles referred to the research on Professional Learning Communities and Professional Learning Networks to expand teacher interactions and meaningfulness of their work
The Horizon Report referred to a 2011 KQED’s Mind/Shift research project, identifying a reliance on PLN’s by 2014/15 – this will get the district ahead of this window
Outcomes of PLN’s Teacher focused
professional development
Individual accountability that works in conjunction with new teacher evaluation system
Focused work on implementation of PBL and advanced research/learning
Technology (in PLN’s) can make the learning easier!