Personal Learning Networks (PLNs) are such an important part of going to conventions and conferences. Because I've been able to attend so many different types over my educational career, I'm lucky to have made a variety of connections and collaborations. (See previous post.)
I'm always encouraged when I'm approached and told that someone follows me on Twitter or has attended one of my sessions. It's nice to have confirmation that I do something that matters and people can hopefully learn from my experience. I'd rather learn from those in the trenches, than those who live only in theory. We learn through sharing ideas and working together.
I didn't present at TCEA 2017 and I won't be presenting at TLA this year either. I decided to take the year off, mostly because of my new job, but also because I've been presenting regularly for the last dozen years and needed a break. That doesn't keep me from reaching out and trying to help where I can, but it was nice to just go to the conference without worrying about the presentation part of it.
It also gave me the chance to volunteer (I love a FREE t-shirt!). This year, I worked the YOUnited booth with Mindi Vandagriff, the Instructional Technologist from Anna ISD. She and I had a great couple of hours taking photos of people and getting to know each other. During our time at the booth, I was introduced to an awesome mother/daughter library duo (Greta and Naomi) and we got into a conversation about MakerSpaces and Library Makeovers.
Naomi follows me on Twitter and knew that I had just remade my middle school library. Our discussion led to an invitation for them to come visit my library (they are wanting to make some changes in their spaces). They came out to see me two weeks later, and then I met with them in Anna to take a look at their libraries and offer my advice. We had a great couple of days and I look forward to building a professional relationship and friendships with these ladies as well.
And it all happened because of the TCEA conference.
