Social Networking and Teacher Leaders

Reflection Question 

How can teacher leaders, coaches, consultants, etc.,  use/teach social networking tools in their roles (Provide rationale about why (or not) these skills should be addressed or used at the leadership level.

(200 words..)

Social networking tools have revolutionized the way we share and process information. Living in the age of communication, society has managed to make the sharing of news, events, and activities almost instantaneously through the use of social media.  No longer do we have to wait for the morning paper, the six o’clock news, or word from friends to spread about interesting and important situations within our community. Social networking and social media has allowed us to share information in real time, not after the event has occurred, but while it is currently unfolding.  

The use of these tools can greatly benefit teacher leaders, coaches, consultants, and many other individuals in education.  Teacher leaders can utilize the benefits of social networking, by sharing their knowledge and professional development instantly with other educators. They no longer have to wait until staff meetings to take place, as information can be shared immediately within an appropriate platform.  Meetings don’t even need to take place in person, as a leaders can correspond with peers through a variety of platforms, whether it be a document on google docs, or a face to face conference using Skype.   

Furthermore, the use of social networking tools have allowed leaders to develop personal learning networks among peers for professional development. Individuals can network with other leaders in a variety of fields 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with the use of Twitter, Google+, and Linked In.  What use to take years to establish, when developing a network of contacts professional development, can now occur in the space of just days and weeks.