1. Using Web 2.0 Social Networking Software to Build PLCs in Special Education
Elizabeth L. Hardman, Ph.D.
DePaul University
ILCCBD Winter Drive in 2012

2. Objective
The purpose of this presentation is to provide information about how to use readily available Web 2.0 social networking software to create and participate in Web-based professional learning communities (PLCs) focused on the practice of special education . 

3. Professional Learning Communities
Every special educator, pre-service to veteran, needs liberal access to both
formal and informal networks of support and
quality professional development that is tightly focused on mastering the evidence based inclusive practices known to bring about the most significant and meaningful changes in student learning

4. Collaboration Builds Community
Practitioners
Teacher Educators
Aspirants and Novices
Links research to practice
Sustains Professional Growth
Lifelong Learning
Promotes Discovery

5. Challenges to Community Building in Special Education
chronic shortage of experienced special educators to provide leadership for community building efforts,
distribution of programs and teachers across multiple school sites, and
lack of resources to support the meaningful participation of teacher educators in community work and development.

6. Chronic Teacher Shortages
Attrition among novices and experienced special educators
Isolation
Lack of professional development opportunities
Induction support

7. Solution Build a Web-based PLC
Link educators across distributed school sites
Support field experiences and induction
Provide sustained quality professional development for each stakeholder
Provide support to schools that are in the most need
Enhance teacher quality
Create a stronger connection between research and practice
Address isolation by building community among special educators at all levels of practice

8. Wikis editable websites provides a database
repository for collective knowledge

9. Ning provides social networking site
allows members to create and build professional identities