Today's blog highlights the Pros and Cons of Social Media use in the
classroom. Each student must pick a stance and I chose Pro. I will
reflect on my finding from the article:
http://bit.ly/nhu-edu531-smpros
The
debate has posed viable arguments from both sides, but finding an
equilibrium has become challenging. Social media as an educational tool
can enrich learning experiences and inspire students and staff to
interact in new ways. That is just it, many of the social networking sites gauge success by collaboration and foster participation. Whether schools adopt the programs that are already popular or not, districts need to find ways to engage their students or digital natives in the same way if not more.
If social media sites are used properly and planned accordingly they can serve as an amazing educational tool. Students can create meaningful dialogue and exchange ideas with other students from other regions of the world, the possibilities are endless. Students will learn how to team build which is a valuable skill to have in the job world. Communication is a big factor when groups work together. Student engagement will increase if students can contribute without feeling obligated to speak in front of their peers. Social media sites also promote learning beyond school hours because teachers can post assignments and ideas as they arise. Tutoring and guidance is possible through the forum and mistakes can be fixed by example in real time. Also student response is easily assessed if each participant has their own account. Learning the ability to navigate through sites and channels will prove to be a valuable job skill. You can use social media to find a job.
I am pro social media because adults and employees use these sites as resources and entertainment. When you turn 18 and graduate the urge to use these sites doesn't vanish into thin air. I beieve that campuses should mirror society and from my experience employees in all fields and industries utilize social media on a daily basis. We should have students and staff collaborate on the integration of technology in schools and eventually the curriculum as well. One thing we can learn from the rapid growth and popularity of social networks is that user feedback can be very valuable!
As
educators we need to determine what is relevant and important enough for our
students. We also need to challenge ourselves if we expect our students to
accept adversity and change. I also believe that society is changing at such a
rapid pace that we must prepare our students for that day. The jobs they may
end up with haven’t even been invented yet. Virtual work is increasing as work
in the classroom is decreasing. Today textbooks just don’t make sense, the
process should be obsolete, but we continue to justify high costs and out of
date material. Students need to learn how to become stellar and adaptable learners
for the 21st Century. The skills they master now are essential for their success in the
future.
