Why have a Personal Learning Network (PLN)? Due to advanced communication technologies and social media, educators are finding answers and support from peers and experts worldwide when needed. Personal Learning Networks consist of people we choose to provide us with support, professional development, and resources. We may meet them first at conferences or online, but we continue to collaborate and communicate through various social media tools, such as Nings, blogs, RSS, and Twitter. In this session, participants will be provided with resources to help them build an effective Personal Learning Network of educators and thought leaders. We will delve into the features of each of these tools to determine which best suits each individual participant. Moreover, participants will discover who is participating in these networks and the purpose behind educator communities.

10. free blog hosts

14. Interacting With Feeds

15. Interactive Features

16. Twitter 140 Characters Communication Norms @ShellTerrell Stick with it! Beware links/ apps Include a bio Retweet # Hashtags 20%/ 80% Rule

17. Profile View

18. Home View

19. Settings

20. Connections

24. Your Page