Twitter is the World’s Best Free Professional Development Tool
Since I was awake at 5 AM on a Saturday (don’t ask), I figured it was a good time to update my Personal Learning Network on Twitter. For years, I’ve been saying Twitter is the best free professional development tool available; I even teach an online course at two colleges all about Twitter.
Not familiar with the power of Twitter? You doubt the veracity of my claim? Check out the amazing PD and personal enrichment I received on an early Saturday morning from Twitter.
With the intention of growing my PLN, I went to one of my favorite educators, Shelly Terrell. One of the most energetic and brilliant teachers I know (by the way, I met Shelly on Twitter and later at the ISTE conference), I know she follows remarkable people in education, business, leadership and entrepreneurship, so I figured I couldn’t go wrong following some of the people in Shelly’s PLN.
Soon, I found Jordan Hamel, an engineering student, who is working on an education technology app. Because I’m interested in mobile apps, I reached out to Jordan so we could connect and share ideas about mobile applications.
Next, I found Jeff Herb, an Instructional Technology Director at a high school in Illinois. Jeff’s Twitter profile led me to his web site, Instructional Tech Talk, a veritable treasure trove of technology resources. I bookmarked Jeff’s site, because I knew I would return to it later and make use of the many education tools there. (Notice the amazing, free PD.)
Minutes later, I clicked into the Twitter handle belonging to Roxanna Elden, a teacher and writer. Her profile routed me to a website that describes her book, See Me After Class. I read a review by Education Week, which said Elden’s book has “a heavy dose of practicality, a dash of cynicism, and wry humor.” I was intrigued and moments later, I was on Amazon.com downloading See Me After Class to my Kindle.
In about 45 minutes of perusing the Twitter PLN of my favorite professional, I found an educator with a common interest, an edtech teacher who edits a powerful website, and I discovered new online tools I may wish to use with my own students or share with colleagues. Oh, and I found a new author and added an education book to my library.
By the way, all of this was free professional developmet (although I did purchase Elden’s book).
I could have attended a day-long workshop, which would have cost hundreds of dollars and consumed my entire Saturday. The learning would have been negligible. Instead, I spent a wonderful 45 minutes in the comforts of my own home, sipping hot coffee, and I learned more than I have in the last five workshops I’ve attended.
So, you see, if you’re not using Twitter, you’re missing out on the best free education professional development tool, period!
If you’re not on Twitter, please join here today
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About The Author
markbarnes19
Mark Barnes is the Founder and CEO of Times 10 Publications, which produces the popular Hack Learning Series -- books that provide right-now solutions for teachers and learners. Mark is the author or publisher of dozens of books, including Bestseller Hacking Education: 10 Quick Fixes for Every School. Barnes presents internationally on assessment, connected education, and Hack Learning. Join more than 130,000 interested educators who follow @markbarnes19 on Twitter.
Hi, thanks for the article and inspiration. I used to be the cool tech/music/video/”ask him, he’ll know” guy. Then we had three daughters and i got a second job. Now i’m way behind the on the social media learning curve. Excited to see if this gets me past the starting point and into a new world of communicating.
As a grandmother of four (the latest one just six days old) and a school psychologist soon to retire I was not real sure about taking this class. Not only am I in a transitional place in life – this form of communication is light years away from my style of learning. But as I read this post and the comments that followed I find myself intrigued. “portal to PD” “educational pirate” Humm . . . While I love to hold books to read and talking to people face-to-face, this twitter business may prove to be most interesting!
I have not ever used twitter. I am curious about the possible connections and usage for my professional life as well as a social tool for my business.
I tried a Twitter assignment a few years back with some of my classes but I haven’t used it since! Looking forward to learning about useful applications for Twitter in my classroom:)
Twitter: mrstdugger
I agree! I love the ease and practiaclity of using mobile apps 🙂 I’m finding some of them to be extremely useful to n the classroom. Also, with kids and a very busy schedule, it’s nice to have this type of PD!
Twitter: madthomasd
I’m taking this class to better understand how Twitter can further advance my connection to students and parents.
Twitter: stretchandcatch
I’m taking this class because although I have a Twitter account, I have no idea how to use it! I am an educator and an author and I know that this is a tool that I need to understand in my career. I’m excited to learn more, I hope I can use Twitter as a tool for people to see my textbooks, like Roxanna Elden did for her book!
Twitter: markbarnes19
Twitter is a fabulous way to spread the word. Welcome aboard, Amanda.
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Twitter: cdbarrus
#pluggedinclass it seems that maybe Twitter isn’t a PD tool, but rather a portal to available PD. It seems to be a great way to reach out to others, though they may not necessarily reach back directly. But nonetheless, it’s a great way to establish a potential network, which doesn’t happen easily or efficiently at a conference.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Christian, you can apply your description of Twitter to just about any social channel. I like the phrase portal to PD. Don’t you think portals are far better for educators than traditional stand-and-deliver PD?
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Twitter: megantctoday
I have been using Twitter for a very long time. I have a few different accounts (personal, coaching, teacher.etc) However, I truly didn’t realize the true power of Twitter, as a professional development tool until I came upon the #pluggedinclass. It was a testament to this article, because I slowly came to find the course within 20-30 minutes of looking at followers of my followers, and searching for #edchats. The power of the tool is a bit scary at times, and now I truly realize its more than simply a place I can post homework or reminders, rather where I can connect and network and more importantly learn from others.
Sometimes it can be tough to stay on track, lol. I often find myself getting lost in the continual network of posts I often forget my original intent of looking at Twitter or where I began. It can suck the life out of me at times but for a great reason!
I’m so excited to learn to be plugged in to Twitter with my students! I have been using Google Classroom and apps with my students, but I am looking forward to extending this tech-trend with Twitter. Teaching 8th grade, this will be a good way to get their attention!
I honestly don’t know why I’ve resisted Twitter, especially when I do have other social media accounts, and I can completely appreciate the free professional development that I’ve been able to get from those other platforms. I think I’m partially afraid of getting sucked into something else that ties me to a computer or phone. However, the way it’s described here, it does seem like an efficient way to learn from others… so here I am, signed up for a course, ready to give it a try!
As an administrator and curriculum leader, I am always looking for new technology integration to offer teachers for student learning engagement. My high school in northeast Ohio received a Straight A grant for 1:1 iPads for every students. Since we will have close to 1025 devices entering the building in August, I want to ensure teachers are comfortable utilizing effective and efficient applications. By reading the this first blog of how Twitter is the world’s best free PD tool, I can assure you that many of my teachers will find this Twitter as a valuable integration tool to their classrooms. My goal is to see a lot of them utilizing Twitter for not just for communication but also embedding it into their course curriculum.
Twitter: Mrs_Poehling
I decided to take the Plugged in for Teachers class at Hack Learning Academy since one of my colleagues will not stop bugging me about it. I believe that I am going to be very happy that I did.
This year I discovered the power of Twitter PD even in your pajamas at home! The edtech summit I attended also showed me the power of Twitter in building relationships.
Twitter: jomrosa
During my planning yesterday I received notification you were live on Periscope. As a result, I have signed up for your Plugged in for Teachers course. I have had a Twitter account since August 2009 and have used Twitter as my PLN by following you and like-minded education and mathematics leaders. The experience you described in this post is familiar I go to Twitter to be inspired, to grow in my thinking, to follow trends in education, to learn from great math teachers, and to learn how technology can be integrated in the classroom.
I believe Twitter, used correctly, is a great platform to share ideas, thoughts, and information. But I also know I have a lot to learn about Twitter.
Twitter: jadams48531
I can see the advantages of using Twitter. It seems incredible to have so many great resources at your fingertips. I’m looking forward to trying it and adding new ideas to how to use Twitter. It also seems limitless what you can get done after or before hours.
John Adams recently posted…The Teacher’s Guide to Tech Might Be Your New Best Friend
Twitter: mrslambright110
I’ve been on twitter for years and use it as a way to connect my parents to the classroom however, as a professional, I’m more of a lurker and hope to become an active participant through this course. Thank you!
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Heather, lurking on Twitter can be very useful, but I hope you’ll engage a bit, as conversations can be both rich and rewarding. Thanks for participating in the Plugged In Twitter course on http://hacklearningacademy.com
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Twitter: jim_helmicki
I was encouraged to this site by a former boss. I look forward to the practicality and ease of gaining professional development as an educator/administrator without spending countless hours in training while getting very little out of them.
Twitter: amyralexy
I have to admit that I don’t feel I’ve used Twitter correctly at all! (definitely not professionally!). I really am looking forward to connecting with like-minded professionals and expanding my PLN for PD–I usually only use Twitter to get sports scores and updates quickly, but hope to transform that ease & speed to benefit my classroom.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Amy, I’m not sure there is a right or wrong way to use Twitter. I love talking sports occasionally on Twitter. You will, I believe, love connecting with like-minded professionals. Enjoy Twitter.
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Twitter: NikkiMillerMCS
I hear this very same thing at all of the live PD that I attend. They say the number one thing that you can do to improve your own professional learning is to become more active on twitter. I feel I’m here but not engaging. I just kind of watch things happen and don’t participate. I’m hoping the “pluggedinclass will help change that.
Twitter: markbarnes19
You will learn a lot about engaging on Twitter in this course, Nikki. Glad to have you on board.
Twitter: Cece5775
First challenge: figuring out how to comment here LOL
Hoping to learn a lot from plugged in
Twitter: markbarnes19
Welcome aboard, Lisa. I received your comment. Thanks.
Twitter: nickroberts27
This article sounds great, but I always get nervous being on social media. Hopefully, this course will show me that twitter can be both safe and useful in my classroom.
Nick Roberts recently posted…Twitter is the World’s Best Free Professional Development Tool
Twitter: JDriscollMIS
Twitter has increased my access to professional development exponentially! I am looking forward to #pluggedinclass to further my PD and to strengthen reasons for all of my staff to be on Twitter!
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Janice, this is great to hear. Hopefully, the course will help colleagues embrace Twitter, too. Good luck. See you on Twitter.
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Twitter: nickroberts27
Sounds great, but I always get nervous being on social media. Hopefully, this course can show me that twitter can be both safe and useful for my classroom.
Twitter: markbarnes19
The best free PD in the world is on Twitter, and many teachers are now seeing its value as a teaching and learning too. Thanks for commenting.
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I’ll admit I’ve been a doubter, but I’m going to try to keep an open mind as I navigate this course.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Keep us posted on your progress on Twitter. Remember, like most things, you get from the tool what you put in. Good luck.
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Twitter: WES_AdultEd
I’m excited to find resources through other users weblinks!
Twitter: WES_AdultEd
I never realized that Twitter would be another, more accurate, form of google. By finding educators who share common interests, etc. you can stumble upon a lot of different websites with great resources!
Twitter: pamblack45
One more way to find cool tech tools and tips that I can share with my students and professional peers! Its like a treasure box just waiting to be found and opened.
Twitter: pamblack45
Looks like another great way for me to find more fun tech tools and ideas to share with my students and professional peers. There’s a lot out there to discover, like a treasure chest waiting to be unearthed!
Twitter: SenoritaTweet
I look forward to being able to reach my students in a way they most understand through Twitter!
Twitter: EBuboincs
Looking forward to finding people in my profession to help in the classroom
Twitter: markbarnes19
You’ll find thousands on Twitter, Ed. Good luck, and thanks for reading and weighing in here at Brilliant or Insane.
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Twitter: Whitemia22
I’ve never used twitter in the capacity that is described above. Wow! I love how you were able to make so many meaningful connections in such a short period of time.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Twitter is truly amazing, Mike. I think you and your students will love it.
Mark Barnes recently posted…Can Teachers Take the Monster Out of Twitter?
Twitter: shanmorris76
I’m looking forward to making connections professionally with Twitter. I teach in an IB school and hope that I can connect with other early childhood educators using Twitter.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Shannon, kids love twitter. Engagement will increase exponentially with Twitter. Thanks for reading and commenting. Don’t be a stranger at B or I.
Mark Barnes recently posted…The 3 Secrets That Online Courses Can Teach Traditional Schools
Twitter: Alexis_Volk
As a mom of 2 little kiddos I find it hard to be away from my family for long PD days. I am also up very early on Saturday mornings – I look forward to using this time to become inspired for my classroom while the rest of my house is asleep! I can’t wait to find some creative colleagues to follow.
Twitter: markbarnes19
I love seeing teachers begin a Twitter Journey, Alexis.You are going to love it. Please keep us posted here at B or I on your progress. And thanks for reading; I hope you’ll be a regular.
Mark Barnes recently posted…The 3 Secrets That Online Courses Can Teach Traditional Schools
Twitter: ushaushausha42
As an art teacher I often feel like I was working an a bubble. Most schools will have a couple or a few art teachers but we are usually so busy dealing with our own classes that we don’t take time to collaborate and bounce ideas off of each other. I used to rely on state conventions to get new ideas and to get inspired.
Since I’ve been away from the classroom it’s been even worse. I’m really looking forward to learning how Twitter can get me back in to “the now” of what’s happening in art education.
Mark, great example of Twitter in action. I like many of your readers ( I’m sure) immediately went to check out Jeff Herbs Tech Talk site right away upon your mention, good stuff! Looking forward to connecting with other professionals in education from around the world using Twitter.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Thanks Sean. Please keep reading and contributing here and keep us posted on your Twitter progress.
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Twitter: RobinBJoseph
I never thought of using Twitter as a PD tool. It sounds like a great way to connect with colleagues and shorten my learning curve! I think it will really help my with learning and teaching for my AP Psychology class
Twitter: markbarnes19
Your students will love Twitter, Robin. Thanks for reading. I hope you’ll be a regular here.
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Twitter: ushaushausha42
I’m blown away that in my first few minutes on this Twitter class I’ve actually connected with a former colleague. Hey Robin! I hope we both get a lot out of this class and I hope all is well with you and your family!
-Tom
Twitter: markbarnes19
Glad you’re on board with Twitter, Tom. Be sure to tweet me at #PluggedInClass. And thanks for reading Brilliant or Insane. Don’t be a stranger.
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Twitter: RobinBJoseph
I never thought of using Twitter as a PD tool. It sounds like a great way to connect with colleagues and shorten my learning curve! I think it will really help my with learning and teaching for my AP Psychology class
Twitter: KistSylviakist
As I was reading the article I thought, Twitter as PD? Does it do that? (I am such a novice with Twitter. I just signed up for my account prior to writing this comment because the article said I should.) It grabbed my interest (the PD declaration) because I am not always happy with what I have learned at PD workshops. I would like to be able to connect with other kindergarten teachers. That would be enhance my abilities as an instructor. My concern now is: What do I possibly have to contribute to them on my Twitter account? As an aside, as I was scrolling down to reach this comment section, a statement caught me eye. Something about “in order to teach students math they have to write about it. ” That (Tweet??) interested me and I want to go back and read it. Or maybe I need to do that bookmark thing with Diingo you made mention of in one of your 5 minute clips.
I’m scared of this technology because I’m out of my comfort zone but I also think I’m getting hooked.
Twitter: VickiOliverSES
Endless resources, working from home on my own schedule, connecting with great people. Sounds like a win, win, win situation!
Twitter: markbarnes19
Yes, Vicki. I teach an online course about Twitter, and it opens up new worlds to so many people. Isn’t it fantastic? Thanks for reading and weighing in. I hope you’ll be a regular here at Brilliant or Insane.
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I look forward to learning more about Twitter through this course. I’m hoping that the communication and information available from Twitter will benefit my high school math students. Anything I can find that will interest and/or inspire them will appreciated and put to good to use.
Twitter: janmariejensen
Great read! My time is precious! I have very little time with my 4 boys and very soon to be 5 boys running around. Over the last 6 years I have been lacking in the PD area. I am taking this course last minute to renew my teaching license. I loved the idea that I would be able to complete it all on my phone because I only have a few quick minutes here and there to work on my own personal things. My boys ages are 6,5,3, & 10 months, I am due with the 5th boy in Aug. This article showed me a peek into a world that I have never explored and simply didn’t know existed. I am excited to learn more about finding PD fast. I want to learn and grow as a teacher. I am just in a very challenging season of raising children and still trying to be the best teacher I can be. I think twitter will defiantly help me find relevant PD in a quick way.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Good luck with Twitter. It sounds like just the right medicine.
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I had no idea that Twitter was so powerful. I’ve honestly thought of it as a gossiping tool for teenagers. I am very interested to learn more and use the resources Twitter has to improve my teaching.
Denise Billock
Twitter: markbarnes19
Great to hear, Denise. I think you’ll appreciate the power of Twitter the more you use it. Thanks for weighing in here. I hope you’ll be a regular reader here at Brilliant or Insane.
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I am excited about twitter. There is nothing better than being able to sit at home, be able to grow my network, educate myself, and not have to leave my house. Plus it is free.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Jennifer, you are right on all counts. Twitter is so powerful for educators. Thanks for reading and contributing.
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Twitter: mike_yako
It’s true that PD workshops can often be costly and time consuming. It seems like twitter gives an opportunity to find PD that is meaningful and geared towards ones own teaching style.
I am excited to already learn how using Twitter can open a whole world of PD opportunities all while sitting in my nice warm house(it was -18 degrees yesterday morning), all while sipping on my coffee!
Twitter: FletchMarnie
I loved reading about your Saturday morning PD session you experienced in the comfort of your own home. This gave me a great snapshot of how this all works. I’ve started using Diigo since watching your quick video on it, and I’m hooked. This is what I’ve needed to make twitter work better for me. I had felt pretty overwhelmed by all of the posts and links -couldn’t really figure out how people were able to sift through it all. Thanks for a great intro!
Instead of spending a whole day out of the classroom, I can spend time more wisely using technology! If that isn’t a reason to begin using twitter – I don’t know what is!
Twitter: BHSPetry
I am so excited about this course. I did not know that Twitter had so much to offer! I have used it as communication tool, send out reminders. Never imagined I could use it to stay current about trending issues or even as a Professional Development tool!!! I can’t wait to share what I learn in this class with my staff!
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Lee Ann, I’m excited about your enthusiasm and to hear that you want to share what you learn with colleagues. All educators should be using Twitter. Thanks for reading and contributing. I hope you’ll be a regular here at Brilliant or Insane.
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Twitter: cmineard
I am amazed on how instantly you can learn from other colleagues and institutions. I think of all the places can learn from others: in the passenger seat in the car, waiting in line at a store and on a laptop at the coffee shop or at home.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Cari, love your waiting-in-line analogy. I was just waiting in line at grocery recently and read two amazing articles that someone in my PLN tweeted. #AlwaysLearning!
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Twitter: danfitz05
I was impressed with how quickly you can get solid teaching resources. I am also excited about getting efficient PD and connecting with my class.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Dan, thanks for reading and for contributing. Please share your experiences as a new Twitter user. It’s always great to hear how Twitter is impacting educators.
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Twitter: KistlerKatie
I agree that twitter is a great networking tool. I currently teach in a school where I am the only art teacher. Twitter would allow me to find and share many ideas with fell colleges.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Katie, you’ll definitely find excellent sources for teaching art. I’d recommend searching hashtags like #ArtTeacher, which is a busy Twitter feed with lots of great tips and sources. Good luck.
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Twitter: gura_ron
Any type of social media has its pros and cons. It’s great when used to gather/send information in a time efficient way!
Twitter: markbarnes19
Hey Ron, I agree. If Twitter isn’t used properly, it can be a dangerous tool. Still, in a world of global learners, it’s critical to understand these tools and maximize their power. Thanks for weighing in.
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Twitter: slkutschinski
I am always excited to learn time efficient and cost efficient ways to improve my teaching and my students’ learning. It sounds like twitter is a great avenue for this.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Thanks Sarah, I think you’ll enjoy Twitter.
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Twitter: amherstteach
Technology is here whether we like it or not. Rather than fight it, why not embrace it and use it to the best of our abilities? Gone are the days of sitting in a boring PD seminar for an entire day. Why do that when you can utilize Twitter and other avenues to tailor one’s PD to their wants and needs?
Twitter: kellybreunig
I am looking forward to learning more about making connections with other educators via Twitter. This sounds more beneficial than most PD I have been required to attend.
Twitter: sammartinol1
After reading this article and several others I had no clue how much you can use twitter to enhance teaching and learning. I’m anxious to use twitter as a fun and creative way to connect with my students.
Twitter: markbarnes19
Lawrence, when you build a PLN, you’ll be even more amazed at the information you’ll receive about education. Enjoy Twitter.
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I never pictured twitter being able to take the place of professional workshops, but it sounds like it is even more informative than a day long workshop and will save a lot of money/time!
Twitter: markbarnes19
Kristen, I think you’ll find Twitter to be amazing PD. Plus, it’s ongoing. There is always something, unlike the one-day workshop that stops giving when you leave.
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Twitter: anissa.smithkenstonlocal.org
I am excited to be able to access so many different venues. It is a lot to take in at first, but I’ve always prided myself on being a great educational pirate. Why reinvent the wheel when you can expand upon its use.
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Twitter: markbarnes19
Anissa, I love the phrase “educational pirate.” I agree that we need to use the tools at our fingertips. Good luck and enjoy Twitter.
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Twitter: markbarnes19
@Jessie Kankula Glad you enjoyed my Twitter Course. The chats you mention and many others are amazing ways to connect with educators and other professionals. Thanks again; see you in the Twittersphere.
I have to agree. During this course I have found quite a few educators that I follow for resources, apps, and ideas. I love the #edchat and #spedchat. I’m very glad I took this course and I hope more people learn the value in Twitter.