"Best P.D. Out There"? An Exploration of the #NGSSchat Network on Twitter

• In Event: Professional Learning and Resources for Teachers in Social Media and Digital Environments

Abstract

The #NGSSchat Twitter hashtag is a long-standing and active online space where educators with an interest in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) can discuss, share resources, and network. We explored the nature and outcomes of #NGSS participation via a mix-method survey of #NGSSchat participants (N = 110). Findings highlight the science education content focus, in contrast with other social media-based professional education networks that appear to serve a relatively more social function. Findings also illustrate that knowing who is participating in #NGSSchat is essential given the different sources of expertise possessed by individuals in different professional roles. This work points to the importance of digital social networks and how they may shape large-scale educational improvement efforts such as the NGSS.

Authors

• Joshua Michael Rosenberg, The University of Tennessee - Knoxville

• Jeffrey Paul Carpenter, Elon University

• Esther Michela, Kennedy Krieger Institute

• Omiya Sultana

• Thomas J McKenna, Boston University

• Elizabeth B. Dyer, The University of Tennessee - Knoxville

• Joshua Reid, Middle Tennessee State University