Dipping a Toe into the Online Community Pool

      There are a myriad of ways to be a part of online communities as a teacher. Before taking ED676 I was aware of a number of them. The course has only expanded my field of vision when it comes to being present in a forum for teachers as well as sharing resources and experience. Today I'm highlighting one of the communities I have been a part of for years.

       Kappa Delta Pi is an International Honor Society in Education. I was nominated and inducted into my chapter as an undergraduate student at Arcadia University. As a college student it was a way to connect with future educators in my university and across the nation. As a current teacher it has become a completely different resource to me.

        While I have been more of a passive member of the community as of late, there are still many valuable resources that are available to members. The KDP website hosts an online forum where anyone can post at any time. Additionally, I receive weekly emails with some of the threads that would be of interest to me. Not only can you post questions about jobs or experience, but you can look for advice and resources. I also receive quarterly publications in the mail. (I could request them for a Kindle/Nook/etc as well) These publications include everything from beginning of the year advice and best use of data to highlights of teachers making a difference. Each of these quarterlies makes its way to my classroom by my desk.

A sneak peek at a current thread on the discussion board!

          Some of the additional resources that I look forward to utilizing more than I have recently are Webinars, conferences, and grants. I have participated in a few of their available Webinars and on the whole they have been applicable to my teaching. Not only are there moments for questions and interaction, but you can receive resources from the presenter. KDP offers conferences every year as well as the ability to apply for grants. These are the two areas that I do not have as much experience with. However, every year the email goes out regarding grants and I come so close to starting an application. I'm hoping to get over this anxiety and fear to just dive in and give it a shot. While I do not always have the time to travel to conferences the possibility is intriguing! I'm hoping that as I become more of an active member in their online community it will give me the confidence to attend in the future.

Current discussions and Webinars available!

           So, how do I access all of this? Yes, there is a fee, but as a contracted teacher now it is not breaking the bank! My yearly fee for the resources and community involvement is $45. It can be more than this if you decide to subscribe to certain publications or add chapter dues into the mix. However, so far in my career I have decided to renew my membership every year. In not hesitating to do this, I know that even if I'm not 100% involved, the resources and tools available to me are worthwhile.
           Do you all have suggestions of additional communities to be involved in? As teachers we are always on the look out for a way to dialogue with colleagues and share advice/resources/experience. Where do you get the most bang for your buck?