I started tentatively. I wrote my first post and tweeted my first tweet. I watched for a reaction, and I was mindful of any followers or comments.
In the days and weeks that followed, I checked my stats daily, analyzing the response with regard to numbers, geography, time, and content.
I questioned my voice--who am I as a tweeter, blogger, and what are my values in this regard. I made some choices:
- Write only what you are willing to defend if it were front page news.
- Don't use names of people or organizations without permission in most circumstances.
- Cite references, quotes, images.
- When in doubt, ask a question.
- Acknowledge your own shortcomings.
- Keep it positive (most of the time).
- Be truthful.
My blogging and tweeting was fueled by the fact that the reflective practice and share resulted in better teaching--students were happier, there was greater differentiation, and I was enjoying the job more.
As time went on, I checked my stats less and thought about my voice and discourse more--what words do I want to share, and what words are better left unwritten?
And now, I continue to blog and tweet to exchange ideas and develop as an educator. I like having the consult of so many wonderful educators and thinkers online--people who are quick to respond if I have a specific need or question, and people that open doors to new ideas, considerations, and actions for me regularly.
There remain many questions to answer as I continue on this journey, questions that pertain to teaching individual students well with engagement and empowerment, and questions that pertain to content knowledge and lesson design. I use these vehicles to keep up with the latest research, resources, and new ideas.
In a sense it's the learning journey made visible--a journey so important to the work we do as educators each day.
Note
Godin's post today adds some affirmation to the thoughts above.
Note
Godin's post today adds some affirmation to the thoughts above.
