When social networking is mentioned during a faculty meeting there is usually a firestorm of comments that follow ranging from a complete dismissal of social networking sites to creating Facebook events for every minor activity. The rapid rise in use and popularity of blogging and social network sites has demanded that schools determine what stance to take with this technology. Schools also must decide if and how social networking can be used in the classroom.
The best part of social networking is that students can get information from a variety of sources and people that would be impossible without the internet. By setting up a blog on a particular topic, students have given those with the same interest in that topic the opportunity to contribute to what the students are doing. Classes can set up pages on sites like www.delicious.com and share information with each other at no cost. Sites like Facebook and twitter give students the change to directly contact primary sources and interact with people the would have otherwise never had a change to contact.
There does seem to be a lot of fear and controversy surrounding social networking sites. Many teachers have lost their jobs over things they have posted on their personal pages. The public nature of social networking makes protecting privacy and using sound judgment of utmost importance. Students use these sites as a way of life to share life, plan events and even discuss academics. These sites are a great place to share multimedia, such as google or youtube videos.
While I believe there are many possibilities to use social networking in an academic sense, as I discussed above, I find it difficult to do this in an authentic way. I feel that the best use of social networking is to maintain relationships with friends and family.
The exponential development of communication technology has evolved into social networking. The speed at which this has become a popular form of communication has really created a scenario where a decision on the role of this technology may be premature. The long-term result of this technology is yet to be seen, and its role in schools is as well. One point you made about it is definitely accurate, and that is the speed that it can get someone in trouble. I think that people need to really consider how much they share on these sites. This requires discernment that many have not developed well enough to match the power of these technologies.
ReplyDeleteIt does seem like educators are somewhat cautious using social networking sites due to the fear of recrimination. As a result, there are many teachers who still have not embraced social networks. But fear should not be a guiding force that drives educators or education; instead, teachers should become informed about social media and make informed decisions. It is unfortunate that many of the things that happen in education today are a result of reactive thinking instead of proactive thinking.
ReplyDeleteAlso, utilizing closed groups for class assignments is a great way to protect students from online predators. It is also important that teachers moderate their groups carefully so that cyber bullying does not become an issue.