Over the last few years I have been running CPD/INSETS/training in schools and various other institutions. (See www.trythisteaching.com/cpd for the type of work I offer!)
I always ask the people in front of me whether they are on Twitter or not. I have become accustomed to seeing less than ‘15% or so’ of any of the educators I am working with are actually actively on Twitter. (Other than at TeachMeets, then you may get more!)
So, this short blog post is a little start up advice for anybody wanting to join Twitter.
Think of a ‘proper’ Twitter handle/username that you won’t mind sharing with others! For example, mine is @ASTSupportaAli, which is pretty long and I am no longer an AST, but I am stuck with it now! Although, you can change your Twitter handle at a later date, but you will lose links/connections to others who have got to know you under that handle. Be clear and specific when being asked your interests. Think about what type of account you are setting up, it is hard to mix personal interests and professional ones, sometimes. Also consider whether you want your current school name in your handle. CHECK your schools Social Media policy.
Some interesting user names! Not my list of recommended people to follow!
Update your description with a clear explanation of who you are. Mention what you teach, your current role and any hashtags you are interested in. Add your website if you have one. If you are feeling brave, do add a photo. But, do not keep the blank/default one!
Here is Darren’s description- This is a WAGOL- What a good one looks like!
Hashtags– Seek out your subject/role/sectors hashtag, join in on the Twitter chats and search using the hashtags for example; #BAMEed #WomenED #UKEdChat and #TeamEnglish
Use the search bar to find words, hashtags that you are interested in!
Twitter Chats– See when other people in your area/field are talking based on pre given questions. Really good chats include, #SLTChat, #PrimaryRocks #UKEdChat.
Some useful Twitter chats, their hashtags and times!
You do not need to tweet! Follow people who are interesting to you, similar to you, who may challenge your viewpoints too. Favourite tweets that you would like to read later too. When you start feeling confident, then maybe start by interacting with people by saying thanks for their resources, blog posts and links.
Be a radiator. Not a drain. Or better still, a solar powered lamp. Take in the good stuff then light the way for others! 🙈
For more information check out these StaffRM posts with several blog posts about Twitter.
Some useful short cuts for you!
I won’t use this post to share with you people that you should follow, or useful accounts etc. I just wanted it to be a quick referencing tool for you to get started on Twitter. DO remember that tweets stay on your account, for all to see. So be mindful of this.
