Social media can be used in an effective way within the classroom. It is a form of communication that students are comfortable and familiar with. It also provides immediate feedback to teachers for each individual student. One huge benefit is the teacher’s ability to respond/provide feedback to each individual student in a quick and effective way. With this being said, it is crucial that district social media guidelines be strictly followed. In the beginning of a school year, I teach all of my classroom rules, routines and procedures to establish a strong classroom management system before I begin academic instruction. This sets the framework for a successful year. The same principles need to apply to using technology in the classroom. Before beginning to teach any actual lessons that involve media, students first must learn the rules of internet safety, what the district policies are, and be provided with a clear set of rules and consequences. After setting this foundation, then successful social media integration can take place. This is going to look different at each grade level as well. Students under thirteen cannot have their own social media accounts. This is where something like a teacher Twitter account can be used as a class tool. For example, a teacher can tweet an author that they are currently reading, and have the kids be part of forming questions to ask that author. The class may get a response, or even the opportunity to interact with the author. This is an example of a safe, effective way to use social media with younger students. Another example is a closed social interaction space such as Google Classroom. Students and the teacher can write and respond via comments. This can only be seen by the teacher and the students, and the teacher is able to manage all of the comments and ensure it is a safe, educational, and productive environment. Any educator with a social media account should be an advocate for student online safety. In Patrick Larkin’s article, “What Do You Do When You See Inappropriate Social Media Posts?” he stated, “As an educator, I feel it is the job of all of us to support students and ensure they are fully aware of the implications of their online activities.” I agree with this fully. Employers and college admission officers check social media accounts. This isn’t something the average high schooler is thinking about, which is why it is important to educate them about the impact of their online presence. I fully agree with immediately reporting any inappropriate student behavior seen online.
2 Comments
Scott Marsden
3/10/2019 03:43:56 pm
Jennifer,
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JP
3/12/2019 09:09:28 pm
How are students are perceived by everyone online I feel like is on our students mind because they are starting to or beginning to care a lot about what others think - but they are not necessarily thinking about the potential consequences of their actions. But yes, they are not thinking about how colleges and potential employers might view their actions online.
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