The main benefit is associating myself with other like minded people and networking to learn ideas, best practices, and to keep up with the environment.
Not currently, but it looks like joining the AIGA would be a good start. Our school used to have teacher meetings a few times a year, but no longer. I miss the sense of camaraderie and being able to talk about teaching-related subjects with peers.
I belong to a Professional Organization and find it beneficial to me and my students. I am able to keep current on new issues in my field and share that information with my students. It also promotes a sense of community for those in the profession. It also gives you the opportunity to have the Organization present to your students to see if they are interested in joining the group.
I belong to a couple, AIGA and IGDA. Bboth being professional organizations they have a blend of instructors and professionals that participate. It lets you stay on trend with the industry and make bring real world trends to the classroom.They also allow networking opportunities for staff and students. The biggest drawback is the level to which the organizations can meet.
Brandon,
Both organizations come with fantastic perks and are very well respected for supporting working musicians. Thanks for sharing!
Wishing you continued success in the classroom.
Theresa Schmitt
I belong to the Association of Veterinary Techician Educators. This allows me access to interactive blog forums to share teaching techniques, course content and ideas to overcome stumbling blocks for educating those in veterinary medicine.
Yes, ASCAP and RIAA. Belonging to these groups keeps me up to date with standards in my industry and also allow me to work within my industry which in turn allows me to bring fresh new material to the class.
I currently belong to the American Corrections Association, which coincides seeing I teach Criminal Justice. The ACA membership provides me with access to their monthly magazine as well as access to their website which provides current, relevant information in relation to corrections.
I started this membership with my previous employer, but may have to end it as my current employer does not pay for association memberships.
Jeff
Darla,
I would ask your Chair or the Dean/Director of Education to see if reimbursement is an option at your institution. Most schools require evidence of several documented professional development activities throughout the year and membership in an organization may be an acceptable form of professional development and eligible for reimbursement.
Wishing you continued success in the classroom.
Theresa Schmitt
The organization in which I am a member of allows networking opportunities and knowledge of the field of study.
I agree with use of modern technology,quiz star,ebooks.In our school we use Evolve which provides ebooks also it gives lot of virtual lessons and quizzes ,anothor benefit is that they are easily accessible on smart phones,tablets etc so no need to physically carry books and no worries about forgetting them.This age of students who learn better by interaction our college is moving forward with hand in hand with modern technology.
Does your employer pay the membership fees?
I am a member of several professional organizations, both regional and national. These allow me access to great educational materials and resources. I get periodicals in print and via email, I have access to online media, I get discounts on books and ebooks, I get discounts on professional development opportunities, etc. I have attended and presented at several conferences hosted by these organizations. This is great for networking and sharing information with professionals and experts in the field. I love the magazines that I receive they are full of great ideas applicable to my classroom.
Yes, I belong to The American Dental Hygienist Association and this has many perks. By being a member at the national level it also includes our membership at the local level. This is highly advantageous because it provides many opportunities for local networking, we have monthly meetings that feature speakers that offer continuing education, and there are websites and resources available to members. As a group we can lobby for our profession and have been successful in the progression of the dental field. Many of these things would not be possible w/o this professional organization.
Lori
I do not currently belong to a professional organization related to my field, but have wanted to initiate this for quite some time. Unfortunately, they make it quite expensive (nursing). I think it is very beneficial. It shows to others that you hold your field to a high level of importance to you personally. It is good for students to see you do this. It shows that you are dedicated to the field and keeping current with the news and changes in the field.
Kathy,
You provide some excellent examples of how belonging to a professional organization can benefit both you and your students. Thank you for sharing!
Wishing you continued success in the classroom.
Best,
Theresa Schmitt
Yes, I belong to three professional organizations in my field. The benefits are: 1. I am connected with other individuals in my field and can call on them to enhance my class as a guest speaker; 2. I am updated on industry trends in my field through organizational lectures and events; 3. I am able to secure internships for my students with organizational members who are in the industry.
I am a member of the NYS Science teachers Association. I am also a member of the American Denta Hygiene Assoc. I find that these associations are helpful in keeping me current with continuing education course and current with what is going on in my profession.
Yes, I belong to several professional organizations and they do keep me up to date on the latest technology and trends in the industry.
I do belong to some professional organizations. These organizations keep me up to date on new laws and changes within my profession as well as helping me to complete the ce requirements of certification and registration.
