Social Media in the Classroom
Benefits and Drawbacks of Social Media in Education (PDF)
This article discusses the many benefits and drawbacks of social media in education. While social media can be a terrific tool for connecting with others, it is essential that "students distinguish the skill needed to locate information online from the ability to understand that information" (Connolly). Most importantly, however, is for teachers to constantly discuss the many pros and cons of social media so students understand its capabilities and pitfalls.
Pitfalls and Promises of Social Media in Education (PDF)
This PDF presentation includes a lawyer's perspective on social media in the classroom. This law firm has included many technical definitions and statutes that are not explained thoroughly, but the majority of the presentation is full of pertinent information, especially for administrators thinking of modifying a social media policy. Once again, the focus of the presentation is encouraging schools to have policies in place that all students know and understand. More and more, legal action is being taken against students and bystanders alike who take part in inappropriate uses of technology, and students need to be aware of the possible consequences.
How Blogs, Social Media, and Video Games Improve Education by Darrell M. West
In this academic paper, Darrell M. West describes the importance of using technology to help students gain "global empathy." Through the use of blogs, wikis, twitter, skype, and video games, this generation of students can become collaborators and commenters in a global network. Games and interactions create engaged participants who are more involved in their own learning.
Educators Debate the Merits of Technology in Classrooms
This article describes social media's relevance in classrooms as a communication tool for schools. Tech savvy schools are seeing dramatic improvements in grades, engagement and communication skills among their students. While technology has many opportunities for students, there is still concern for their well being in an online community. Schools and online communities alike are working to increase the safety of their environments so students can get the most out of the technology that is available.
Smart Questions About School's New Media Policy
This article discusses media policies at a Manhattan iSchool. Just recently, the school imparted guidelines that would limit the amount of interaction that students and teachers could have in online networks. While most teachers and students understand the need for separation, there are many grey areas discussed that bring students and teachers together in a safe and appropriate way. This article brings up many good questions about policies in schools.
Blog Post About the Dangers of Blocking Social Media in the Classroom
In Miguel Guhlin's blog, he discusses his experience with trying to help school's develop policies for technology. He notes that there are not many experts in the field and in many situations, certain technologies are still too new to understand their full capabilities. Instead of ignoring it, however, schools should be willing to work with teachers to educate the students and create environments for proper engagement and collaboration.