Module 5: Social Media in the classroom

As an educator I am constantly trying to find ways to keep my classroom up to par especially with the most recent technology. Did you ever think you could incorporate social media networks into your classroom? What kind of social media platforms are there and how could they be implemented into a classroom setting? Did you know, students are currently experiencing an exchange of ideas, resources, and information beyond textbooks and classroom lectures using social media (Kiiky, 2022). There are serval pros and cons in regards to social media but I could not believe how beneficial social media networks could be in a school setting. 

 

History of social media 

In 1997 the first recognizable social media site, Six Degrees was created (Hendricks, 2021). The site enabled users to upload a profile and connect and develop friendships with other users. Two years later in 1999, the first blog sites became popular, creating a social media sensation that’s still popular today (Hendricks, 2021). After blogs, a whole new world of social media sites bloomed. In the Early 2000’s sites such as myspace and Linkedln became well known and implemented (Hendricks, 2021). In 2005, YouTube was introduced to the world and it was a great resource for individuals to communicate with one another regardless of distance. Some of the most well-known and most implemented sites came about by 2006. Sites such as Facebook and twitter. From here other sites such as Tumblr, Spotify, and Pinterest came about (Hendricks, 2021).

What is social media?

Social media is a means of sharing ideas, thoughts, and information via the internet. People use social media to stay in touch with friends and family. Accessing social media has become effortless due to applications on mobile devices. Social media has different categories based on their various functions (Kiiky, 2022).

 

Benefits of social media in Education:

According to the article, “20 Benefits of Social Media for Students in 2022” individuals believe social media in education should be encouraged even though some believe it to be a huge distraction for students. Some of the benefits include the fact that it is an educational tool, you can share information, news updates, research work, distance learning opportunities, increased social interactions among students, creating digital portfolios and so much more (Kiiky, 2022)! Social media allow students especially students who may be shy more opportunities for communication. Many students who may not like to speak publicly would benefit from “speaking” on social media platforms. Social media platforms can also improve writing skills. I believe there are several benefits for students and the implementation of social media.

 

  

Types of Social Media Platforms

·      Facebook

·      Twitter

·      MySpace

·      Reddit

·      Quora

·      Snapchat

·      Instagram

Why incorporate Social Media platforms in the classroom setting?

Many students have access to various social media platforms at their fingertips, literally! According to the article “Using Social Media in the Classroom”, social media can be a powerful educational tool that provides unique and dynamic learning experiences to students and teachers alike. Social media is second nature to many of today’s students. Let’s look at some platforms and how they can be implemented:

Facebook and Twitter: (Spanella)

·      Posting assignments/homework as a reminder to complete assignments

·      Bonus points can be provided to students who answer posted questions correctly

·      Students can share online resources related to the coursework

·      Teachers can facilitate online discussions about course material

YouTube: (Spanella)

·      Teachers can post videos that explain how to navigate specific assignments

·      Students can create and post videos for others to view.

Blogs: (Spanella)

·      Students can share information learned with others by hosting blogs

·      Students can reflect on what they have learned through blogs

·      Teachers can post blogs to keep parents informed

·      Online discussion forums can be created to further discuss

Social Media and English Language Learners:

Social media is beneficial for various learners. One challenge English Language Learners are typically faced with is self-esteem issues which leads into being unable to communicate with their teachers and peers. Social media allows students, especially students who may be shy, more opportunities for communication. Many students who may not like to speak publicly would benefit from “speaking” on social media platforms. Social media platforms can also improve writing skills.

 

 

 

 

 

 

References:

 

20 benefits of social media for students in 2022. Kiiky. (2022, May 31). Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://kiiky.com/how-social-media-benefits-students/  

Hendricks, D. (2021, January 22). Complete history of social media: Then and now. Small Business Trends. Retrieved July 13, 2022, from https://smallbiztrends.com/2013/05/the-complete-history-of-social-media-infographic.html

Spanella, T. (n.d.). Take online courses. earn college credit. Research Schools, Degrees & Careers. Study.com | Take Online Courses. Earn College Credit. Research Schools, Degrees & Careers. Retrieved July 14, 2022, from https://study.com/academy/lesson/using-social-media-in-the-classroom.html