Why Do Teachers Connect?

We Have Shared Identifiable Experiences 

As teachers we share a common association which inspires us to identify with each other and formulate worthwhile connections.  We have similar struggles, conflicts, student issues, success stories, administrative and other types of bureaucracy, among other things. Mind you, there are always some exceptions to the rule.  Quite easily though, one teacher can paint a picture of a struggle or conflict being encountered and we very often can offer valuable suggestions because:

            1. We have been there done that so … “Here’s what I did that might help you.”

            2. We know a colleague who had a similar issue so… “Here’s their proven strategy.”

            3. We are presently dealing with the same issue so… “Let’s solve this one together.”

Even if the situation is unfamiliar to us. We can occasionally offer an encouraging word that makes it that much easier for the individual to cope.

To Build a Professional Learning Network

There is great value in building a Professional Learning Network with teachers worldwide.  Through forming connections teachers are able to expand their thinking and problem solving options by making use of a repository of resources available to them. Social media has provided the vehicle to drive this effort once it is strategically navigated. Many teachers will tell you they get more from a single engaging Twitter chat with their PLN than they get from an entire day or even weekend of a traditional Professional Development workshop. Imagine that!!! Teachers have their own goals and strategies that they employ to build and use their PLN. This has somehow transformed the approach to teaching as virtual connections are maintained and used effectively.

A Need to Share

The inclination to share is one of the trademarks of great teachers in general. Teachers connect to share inspiring stories, experiences, and ultimately best practices and resources. The average teacher will jump at a moment’s notice to assist a colleague in need. Again, there is always an exception to the rule. I feel however, that our desire to share is intuitive. This sometimes plays out in our daily encounters with students. Importantly, standard protocols must be observed when offering assistance to students outside of normal duties or expectations. Unfortunately many teachers have suffered severe repercussions in this regard.   Just click here to read one Tennessee Teacher’s story.

Universal Goal

All teachers ultimately desire to see students maximize their potential and be the best they can be. We employ effective, relevant and proven strategies to empower students and facilitate their learning. Even if strategies are not proven, we are willing to try and often learn from mistakes. After all, “Mistakes are the portals of discovery.” – James Joyce. 

Even though very few students will return to express their gratitude this does not thwart our efforts or cause us to hold back on future cohorts.  Words or phrases such as “Thank you for believing in me.”,  “I never thought I could do it”, “You’re the best!” simply warms our hearts and fuel our efforts. However, even if the sentiments are not expressed by students, we remain committed to their learning.

Ultimately we connect because it simply makes sense. In today’s digital world our connections are not mere trivial one off encounters. As digital citizens we exist within each other’s world through our networks and universal experiences. After all, very few teachers will argue that the teaching profession is simply one of the most fulfilling and rewarding.

  

Let’s continue to connect our students to the world as we connect to each other.

Jacqueline Samuels

@TechTeacherJSam