A personal learning network (PLN) is an informal learning network that allows teachers to connect with others in their field, find new ideas, and share creative work and strategies. PLNs promote creativity and networking through social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+, and Classroom 2.0. As budget cuts limit training opportunities, PLNs provide an organic approach to professional development.

1. Personal Learning
Networks
By Kristin Brown

2. What is a PLN?
PLN is short for:
Personal Learning Network

3. What is a PLN?
An informal learning network
Make connections with others in your
field
Great place to find ideas!

4. Why are they important?
Promotes creativity
Share your creative work
Network with teachers
around the world
Share strategies with others

5. What are some PLNs?
Facebook
LinkedIn
Twitter
Classroom 2.0
Google+

6. “As budget cuts continue to
limit district-level training
opportunities, PLNs take an
organic, grassroots approach
to professional development.
(Flanigan)”

7. References
 DonkeyHotey. (Photographer). (2011). Earth-illustration. [Web Photo].
Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/donkeyhotey/5679642883
 Flanigan, R. (n.d.). Personal learning networks taking off. Retrieved from
http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/10/26/09edtech-network.h31.html
 Ivan, W. (Photographer). (2011). Google plus. [Web Graphic]. Retrieved
from http://www.flickr.com/photos/28288673@N07/6171303026/
 Marcopako. (Photographer). (2008). facebook logo. [Web Graphic].
Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/marcopako/2391747442/
 Ochoa, R. (Photographer). (2009). Twitter profile. [Web Graphic]. Retrieved
from http://www.flickr.com/photos/rosauraochoa/3419823308/
 Shekhar_Sahu. (Photographer). (2010). Linkein. [Web Photo]. Retrieved
from http://www.flickr.com/photos/shekharsahu/4545944797/