I absolutely love to learn. It is what drives me every day, to continue on the path to learn new ideas and concepts. Learning for me is fun and a big part of learning is being a part of groups that help push along that agenda. I have recently became a part of all kinds of different learning communities and networks. Here are a list of different communities and networks that I have become a part of:
Classcraft Ambassadors
Design and Innovation Cross-Divisional Team
Teacher Leaders of MS at ASD
Lamar Graduate Program Cohort
EdTech Tips and Tricks
Middle School Video Game Design Teachers
EdTechTeam Global Community
DFW Teachers' Lounge
Teaching During COVID-19
Black Educators in Dubai
Technology Teacher Talk with Brittany Washburn
Instructional Designers in Education
Shake Up Learning
Nearpod Educators
The Infused Classroom
UX of ED
Entrepreneur Mindset Group
Twitter Network
Instagram Network
Black Male Educators United
Being apart of so many PLN's can cause for some disconnect. I can find my self distant in some groups versus other groups based on the personnel. Some groups tend to lean towards a surface level mindset at times which I do not normally connect with. I like to be more observant than vocal. I do find areas to collaborate or offer suggestions when the situation is relevant to my knowledge and/or experience. I love to be of assistance to others as well. I have started or have been asked to lead certain groups based on my skill set and outside of the box ideas and concepts.
Having a PLN is essential to growth as a professional. It allows opportunities for reflection, seeing different perspectives, and gaining new knowledge and ideas. These factors build confidence and also provides support both mentally and emotionally. I am currently fully engaged in multiple networks as I try to become the most innovative educator I can be.