Social Media Networking
Do you believe students and instructors should be connected on social media outlets? Why or why not?
Yes, I believe that students and instructors should be connected on social media outlets because it keep them well rounded and updated with things that are going on.
Yes, I believe it is important to be connected as it helps in many areas. For example, it helps with retention because students are more likely to respond to a Facebook message. Another way is for students to post their work on their Facebook page and to ask for feedback that they can incorporate into the final project (my program is graphic design). This can also be a great retention tool by keeping students engaged and to see that their instructors care enough to follow them on social media. This also gives potential employers the opportunity to view work in progress to gain insight into how the person thinks when solving design problems. I also stay connected with alumni who become great resources for speakers.
I believe that Social Media can have a real valuable place in education. I have used a class facebook page. In the beginning, it worked really well. over time, it became a place for students to vent about their frustrations in the program and in the field. Students began to lose sight of the separation of their personal pages and their school groups. When it worked well, students were able to discuss homework with one another, view a class calendar, obtain assignments, and contact me very easily and with little impact to me (on weekends and evenings).
The other problem that I see is the rate at which social media changes. My space, Facebook, twitter, now the Line app. as soon as you get familiar with a social media, a new one comes out and your old one is no longer valid.
I do think that it sis ok for students and instructors to be connected on some social media outlets. I do not think that it is ok if they are connected in a non learning environment though. For students and instructors to be connected it should be through an instructor made social media outlet like a classroom twitter feed.
Yes, if used appropriately. This can help bring the classroom together. I find that peer-to-peer learning is increased in these situations and that more students actually get involved, even the shy ones.
I believe there are some instances where social networking can be positive if it is utilized in a professional manner and for educational enhancement purposes. Unforunately, these medias are abused by many and can be detremental to one's character and reputation if it is not properly managed by the individual. I have mixed opinions on this issue.
I believe there are some instances where social networking can be positive if it is utilized in a professional manner and for educational enhancement purposes. Unforunately, these medias are abused by many and can be detremental to one's character and reputation if it is not properly managed by the individual. I have mixed opinions on this issue.
I believe its a good idea, however thier should a social site just for the class. Therefore, its strictly for class and not for sharing personal information. A class blog or discussion forum may be a better idea, rather that twitter, facebook, and any other popular social network sites.
I believe there are a lot of benefits to an instructor/student connection through social media. And used properly, students could be directed to new learning material. To elevate the problem of students having access to personal information, we were instructed to create a professional profile that is separate from our own personal profile. It seems to have worked well so far.
Yes, I believe social networking can enhance learning. Students will be able to actively participate in the learning process. Tis would also enhance interaction between students among themselves and with the instructor.
This is a very interesting question. I believe that social media is a good way to keep in touch with your students and students can keep in touch with the instructor; but, it should always be kept on a professional level. If this is going to be possible both the student and the instructor should have a professional page along with a personal page. As an instructor one should always maintain respect and create a barrier with all students. Keep it professional at all times.
I do not believe instructors and students should be connected on any social media. If and when issues arise in the classroom it would be very difficult to deal with those issues if instructors and students have "friended" each other on social media. It is important to be close to your students but you cannot deal with difficult issues if you become too close to a student.
I have mixed feelings on this one. I personally do not interact with students on my personal facebook or twitter account. However, if it is an account that is dedicated only to the topics discussed in class, I am open to it.
Michele,
I agree. A separate account is necessary when connecting with students.
Best,
Theresa Schmitt
Michele,
I agree. A separate account is necessary when connecting with students.
Best,
Theresa Schmitt
absolutely this provides more interpersonal interaction and makes everyone feel more of the part of the group
I believe that if a Facebook page is created specifically for the purpose of teaching and sharing, then it can be a valuable educational tool. However, I do not think that connecting through personal Facebook accounts is a good
idea.
I have mix feelings about connecting with students via social media. On one hand I think information can be shared with students outside the classroom i.e., upcoming events such as webinars, seminars, as well as other educational activities. However, I do feel that there is an inherent danger in engaging with socially. One must be very careful not to cross professional boundaries.
I am trying to incorporate more groups into my planning of the lesson and having only one person using social media networking so that it shows appropriate use during classroom time, not using the classroom time inappropriately, e.g. for tweeting, texting, etc.
