Twitter & Anxiety

Networking

As an introvert, the word "networking" used to terrify me. It all seemed so disingenuous. Since I began using Twitter, I have become a lot more confident in my networking abilities. I have been able to find common interests with people, and make genuine connections. I love being part of a community that shares what they are learning. Plus, Twitter connections give you something to laugh about during your first face-to-face meeting, so it has made conferences much easier for me.

Intensity

Through Twitter, I have found resources that have shed light on my own experiences. One such example happened last night, when I found a TED talk through this tweet:

For kids with anxiety, it's NOT going to be fine unless WE AT SCHOOL are going to do something different. @HHG http://t.co/Ioqzrt9jsY
— Iram Khan (@teachermrskhan) March 11, 2015

I was able to connect with the speaker via Twitter, and let her know how her talk had impacted me:

@HHG I just watched your #TedxLangleyED talk, and it shed some light on my experiences. Thank you for sharing!
— Britney Allen (@MlleBallen) March 11, 2015

@MlleBallen I'm glad it resonated! Helps to know it's not just you, doesn't it?
— Heidi Hass Gable (@HHG) March 11, 2015

@HHG Absolutely! This has given me a lot to reflect on as a student-teacher, too: supporting intense learners, self-care, etc.
— Britney Allen (@MlleBallen) March 11, 2015

@MlleBallen Fantastic! Some of our most vulnerable learners are these intense, sensitive kids. Such potential, but need support!
— Heidi Hass Gable (@HHG) March 11, 2015

@MlleBallen Seeing more research confirming similarities/crossover btwn gifted & autism. Sensitivities, behaviour, overwhelm and meltdowns.
— Heidi Hass Gable (@HHG) March 11, 2015

@HHG Glad to hear that this is being researched - hopefully future Ss will benefit from these findings!

— Britney Allen (@MlleBallen) March 11, 2015

Anxiety has been part of my education experience for as long as I can remember. It became particularly challenging when I was in grade 8, and the idea of going to school became too much for me. In grade 9, I began the 4C Challenge Program, and that helped immensely. However, I had very mixed feeling about my designation... @HHG's TED Talk has led me to reflect on why I felt that way, and how to support intense learners. (There are some great ideas in my post about the UDL workshop I attended recently.)

What I have learned through my PLN has been helping me to unpack my own experiences and grow as a person. I look forward to seeing where this connected learning journey takes me!