This article provides some great background on the theory of connectivism: its beginnings, major influencers, and basic principles. The article goes on to question whether connectivism alone is enough to answer all of the questions regarding how best to reach students in the technology-abled classroom. The article provides 5 scenarios to tackle the question, and offers some thought-provoking findings.

This 2 minute video provides some motivation and encouragement for teachers to consider forming a PLN. This doesn't contain much of an academic slant, but it does incorporate the "why" behind building a PLN.

This short, engaging video provides two excellent reasons for educators in particular to create a PLN: accessibility and responsibility. The author mentions that educators need to be more responsible for their own professional development. This video switches from the "why" to the "how", but the "why" portion is an excellent resource on its own.

This provides some simple reasons to develop a PLN. I love that it encourages busy teachers to create a PLN by letting them know that it will make their work easier! This page also includes a "how to", but the "why" part is a terrific resource on its own.

I love the visual that accompanies this one page text detailing the different modes of the CoP model. The definition of CoP that is found on most other resources is repeated here, but the CoP model is dissected and more is explained about the different elements.

This is a longer slide share detailing the theory of connectivism and its role in the PLE. It also provides very straightforward definitions of the PLE and offers some really nice examples and visuals of learner artifacts in the connectivist PLE.

This is a short little slide share on the basics of connectivism learning theory as proposed by George Siemens. It's very basic and straight forward. I like the metaphor used for learning. I also like the images of the different social networks on the first slide.

This is a fantastic resource to learn more about CoPs, particularly if you are considering forming one. It provides basic info and background about CoPs, but also provides a few examples, and also concludes with some links to external Websites where you can see additional examples of live CoPs.

A short, succinct and very basic intro to the basics of CoP. Gives some background about the theory, and provides nice quotes from a well-known CoP advocate. This wikibook is easy to understand and will provide CoP newbies with the elements of CoP.

A nice summary of the basics of CoP. Gives history of the theory, definition, descriptions, and the building blocks of a successful CoP. My biggest take-away: "The learning that takes place [in a CoP] is not always intentional. This helped me to develop a deeper understanding.

Pinterest has changed my life! From the way I search, cook, decorate, network, and especially the way I teach! Essentially, Pinterest is an online bulletin board. You can collect and share blog posts, pictures, recipes, etc. Connecting with so many different teachers and sharing ideas and resources has been the single most beneficial social networking tool to me.