Week 1-WK

 In chapter 5 we begin to explore some new tools that allow us to expand and bolster our Personal Learning Networks (PLN's). Apps and software that is so commonly used on a day-to-day basis are able to improve your network in innumerable ways. Twitter and Google Drive are two perfect examples of everyday apps that when utilized correctly can take you to the next level of your career. "You do not need to be a Web expert to take advantage of these tools(Twitter, Google Drive) many of them are used widely because they are easy to use." (Hall, 74)  Although public domain apps such as Wikipedia have been frowned on by communities of educators , this chapter gives us some insight on how crucial public domain/ contribution based apps can be to our development in our careers. In addition to these apps we also take a look at social bookmarking and tagging as a means of organizing the content you access online.  Using all of the PLN strategies we spoke about in chapter 5, I can con...

  MuseScore is an invaluable resource for music students anywhere. It offers a free and user-friendly platform for creating, sharing, and discovering for sheet music. As a college student, I can utilize MuseScore to not only compose and arrange my own music but also to access a vast library of scores from various genres and styles. This can be especially helpful for my studies here at Stockton, allowing me to analyze different compositions, learn new techniques, and even collaborate with peers. The ability to download and print scores means I can easily prepare materials for practice or performance, making it an essential tool in my current academic journey.  Web Tool 2.0 Smackdown   Looking ahead to my future as a music educator and performer, MuseScore will continue to serve as a valuable asset. As a music teacher, I can leverage the platform to create custom sheet music tailored to my students’ needs, fostering a more personalized learning experience. Moreover, the com...

In chapter 6, we learn that creating your learning community is incredibly valuable. It’s understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed at the idea of starting to build your network, especially if you’re unsure of where to begin. However, our book provides a clear and practical guide to help you navigate this process. Getting started can be easier than you think. Sometimes, something as simple as aligning your social media presence and profiles can make a difference. While it’s impossible for anyone to know everything, expanding your learning network can significantly enhance your knowledge. By fostering your own learning community, you have the opportunity to explore subjects that truly interest you, rather than simply absorbing information that may not be relevant. Ultimately, you are the best judge of what you and your students need to learn, and by taking charge of your learning journey, you can focus on the areas where you seek more understanding. Building a personal learning network...