Hashtags, Conversations, and Building Professional Communities
Stimulating conversation is often a springboard for innovative ideas and reflective practice. After opening a Twitter account a couple of months ago, I am compelled to address my growing appreciation for the hashtag chat feature.
For those who are unfamiliar with hashtags, they are simply a means to unite Tweets concerning a particular topic. For a more detailed explanation, I found The Ultimate Guide to Twitter Hashtags a good resource.
Some of my favorite aspects of hashtag chats include:
- The conversation does not necessarily need to end.
- You can search for the hashtag at any time and engage in a conversation.
- These chats are often a good way to find other people whom you may be interested in following.
For educators and educational leaders, I have started the #edleaders hashtag. One of my goals this year is to structure more formal #edleaders chat sessions (which will be announced via Twitter @DrTroyRoddy and posted in the margin of The Art of Education). For those who are looking for additional education chats, I would recommend a few of my favorites:
- #edchat
- #edtech
- #cpchat
- #leadershipchat
If you are already Tweeting, check these out. If you do not currently have a Twitter account and are looking for stimulating professional conversations, I would recommend that you consider trying it.
