Social media is an effective way for teachers and educators to connect with each other, share resources and ideas, and look for jobs. Social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook, the Teacher Job Network, are all online networks that can connect teachers with each other.
In general, social networking sites are virtual communities for people interested in a particular subject or just to "hang out" together. Members communicate by voice, chat, instant message, video conference, and blogs, and the service typically provides a way for members to contact friends of other members. By their very nature, social networking sites are relationship-centered and promote shared experiences. For the teacher, social networking provides professional development by introducing them to other educators all around the world, and then using media such as blogs, videos, and chats to connect with those educators. The end result is a virtual support community that connects educators sharing ideas and resources through online networking platforms.
The rationale behind the use of social networks as a tool for connecting professionals is that these platforms streamline access to multiple groups and people. Facebook, for example, provides one link where multiple organizations can be accessed simultaneously. As professional information is posted through feeds on Facebook, group members may respond and interact with other members, just as users can socially interact with their friends on Facebook. Twitter, likewise, allows a user to receive the most updated information about an organization or individual that they are following. Furthermore, Twitter chat allows the user to easily contact another user all around the world and thus facilitate interaction among groups of people (like teachers) with similar interests and goals . Other sites, such as the Teacher Job Network, help educators forge professional connections that facilitate job searches and interviews across the country.