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PME 811- Personal Learning Network


As a teacher, I’m always looking for ways to improve my classroom — especially when it comes to literacy instruction and student engagement. A lot of my professional learning doesn’t just come from formal workshops. It actually comes from everyday places like social media, podcasts, and conversations with colleagues.

Social Media: Quick Ideas from Real Classrooms

Platforms like TikTok and Pinterest are surprisingly helpful for discovering new strategies. Many teachers share quick examples of lessons, classroom routines, and literacy strategies that they’re trying in their own classrooms. I like that these ideas come from people who are actively teaching and experimenting with what works.

One creator I follow, @Unlearn16, shares content about equity and culturally responsive teaching. Her posts often challenge teachers to think about how classroom practices affect different students. It reminds me that teaching isn’t just about delivering content — it’s also about creating a classroom where every student feels respected and included.

Another educator I follow, @RebeccaScienceOfReading, focuses on research-based literacy instruction. She explains the reasoning behind different literacy strategies, which helps connect classroom practice with research.

For engagement and creative ideas, I enjoy following @ArtTeacherKim, who shares fun and practical ways to get students more involved in learning.

Podcasts: Digging Deeper

While social media gives quick ideas, podcasts help me understand the bigger picture. One of my favorites is Cult of Pedagogy. The episodes explore real classroom challenges and teaching strategies in more depth. Listening to other educators talk about their experiences often helps me reflect on my own teaching.

Pinterest: A Place to Collect Ideas

Pinterest has also been a long-time resource for me. I often use it to organize lesson ideas, literacy activities, and project inspiration. It’s helpful when I’m planning a new unit or looking for creative ways to introduce a topic.

Learning from Colleagues

One of the most valuable parts of my professional learning network is simply talking with colleagues. We share ideas, discuss what worked or didn’t work, and brainstorm new strategies together. These conversations help me adapt ideas so they actually fit my students and classroom.

Why This Matters

When I mapped out my personal learning network, I realized how many different sources contribute to my professional growth. Social media gives quick inspiration, podcasts provide deeper understanding, and conversations with colleagues help bring those ideas into practice.

The biggest takeaway for me is that professional learning is ongoing and collaborative. Some of the best ideas come from other teachers simply sharing what works in their classrooms. Staying connected to that network helps me stay curious, reflective, and open to improving my teaching.

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