Twitter as Professional Development?

Brave New World published an article about participatory learning and teaching in the 21st century, which asserts that educators cannot ignore the technologies that permeate our students' lives, especially since social media creates participatory and communal environments that support a very different kind of learning than the traditional classroom in which an authoritative instructor delivers content to passive students.

The author further argues that teachers need to be constant learners, and contends that Twitter may be a way to accomplish this: "Educators who participate in Twitter networks are well placed to support students in the use of relevant digital technologies because the Twitter community shares knowledge, resources and expert advice."

I think the author brings up an interesting question of what teachers need to pay attention to in order to position themselves as lifelong learners. Another way to think about this is where and how educators seek professional development. I'd love to hear from our UC Davis community--how do you seek support for your development as an educator? Do you find yourself using social media networks? Institutional professional development programs? Published articles? Conversations with colleagues? 

http://tsheko.wordpress.com/2014/03/21/participatory-learning-a-prerequisite-to-21st-century-teaching/

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