Benefits of social media for teachers with @toocoolformiddleschool

Looking for a creative way to teach fractions or introduce new ideas that can make learning more fun and engaging for your students? Not sure the best way to get students excited about their next book report project? Enter the helpful and relatable world of social media for teachers.

• Offers support where you need it
• Provides endless ideas
• Allows you to view diverse perspectives
• Highlights the JOYS of teaching

What does the research say?

In a study published in Online Learning Journal in September 2019, researchers sought to provide insight into teachers perceptions and experiences interacting in a virtual PLC within a purposefully designed social media environment for the purposes of networking and learning. Their findings are summarized below.

1. Participants reported that the learning they received from a social media PLC far exceed their contributions. "It wasn't as much as what I brought to the table... as what I gained from the table."
2. Participants indicated that they developed mentoring skills and increased confidence through affirmations of their feelings and experiences within the online community.
3. Relationships was a key result of community building. Many participants felt a sense of camaraderie in an effort to identify best practices related to their role in the school.
4. The use of social media proves to be a supportive learning environment that results in the development of professional networks as well as interpersonal skills such as collaboration and self-improvement.
5. The social media platform as well as the ability to personalize the environment creates an atmosphere that encourages contributions from all participants.

Let's see what we can do to #GetConnected!