Why is Twitter so valuable?

I find I am one of only a few educators/leaders at my school who participate in Twitter. A teacher at my school asked, "Why do you like Twitter? Isn't it just a bunch of people telling you what they are doing?" I find this a common misconception. I told him it has made me a better teacher and leader. On Saturday, March 1st, I went to #WETech14 in New Jersey.  I had the opportunity to connect with some of the most amazing people; such as, @thomascmurray, @billykrackow, @teachercast, @angelinashy and @isupereit. I learned so much from this amazing group of teachers, principals, superintendents and tech directors. How did I get this opportunity? Twitter.

I was able to participate in a discussion on Digital Leadership with @thomascmurray. We discussed ways, as leaders to engage teachers, parents and community. Tom's comment "We trust teachers with the lives of children but not with technology", is something anyone with a say in making policy should ponder.  It was such a great discussion of school leaders. I participated in a discussion on incorporating Google presentations in other ways than a traditional Powerpoint with @teachercast. We talked about using them as thank you cards, comic strips and scrapbooking. This was very informative and creative. I will be able to share with the teachers in my school, district and PLN. Finally, I visited with @wkrakower and @angelinashy where we had a discussion on Twitter, Edmodo and Google Hangouts. My greatest take away was a way for students to teach themselves Edmodo by earning badges. What a great way to promote independence in your students.

So the next time someone asks: Why Twitter? The real question should be: How can you not be on Twitter? The vast amount of knowledge and discussions is a great Professional Development tool. You will also meet great people with a vast knowledge base in the field of education. You even gain more opportunities for live workshops, discussions and growth. I may not know all the answers, but I know where to find them: My PLN.