As an aspiring high school English teacher, I think the vast majority of this chapter applies to teaching. The importance of a connected learning community is extremely evident after reading this chapter. Benefits of a bounded community in teaching include a widespread and creative curriculum, access to more materials, being able to form groups, as well as building a community. Professional learning communities also apply directly to the field of education. Hopefully, I will work in a school building that wants to see improvement among their students in terms of intelligence, but also leadership. As the text states, “Participating in a professional learning community is an important step in becoming a connected educator” (Nussbaum-Beach & Ritter Hall 30).
Diversity is extremely important to maintain in schools. It is imperative that all students feel welcome and appreciated within their classrooms. Students should never feel isolated or unwanted. The most successful classrooms are the ones with the most diversity. Using a common language is also very important in the classroom. The text describes the importance of using a “common language” when writing about learning in open spaces, but this can also be applied to a standard classroom. It’s important to know your audience and use words that pretty much everyone will understand.
When teachers collaborate with one another, they can meet all of their goals and surpass their own expectations. The connected teacher network model is proof of that. With teachers having more access to technology, they are able to come together, collaborate, share, and help one another using websites, blogs, or even social media. Incorporating technology in the classroom allows for more opportunities and outreach. The connected learning model works for student achievement, personal growth as a teacher, and systemic improvement for an entire building.
