Using Social Media in Education
Posted Monday, January 14, 7:02PMI'd like to hear from anyone who has questions or ideas about the Using Social Media in Education session(s): What would you like talk about / learn about?
Web 2008 in 1.5 days Atlanta, GA February 8-9, 2008
I'd like to hear from anyone who has questions or ideas about the Using Social Media in Education session(s): What would you like talk about / learn about?
Mark Anthony,
The big question is whether the use of social media really helps our students learn, learn better or is just another distraction from the topic at hand. As academics, we have to define what we mean by "social media in education." Then, take that definition to what does it mean for our classroom. As I think I mentioned elsewhere, I have my students blogging this semester on BLOGGER pages specifically for my class. I signed up with Facebook last year and have been very underwhelmed by what I see there. Perhaps, I'm too far removed from the typical undergraduate student today to really "get it." Still, are blogs or sites like Facebook or MySpace really worth the effort? I look forward to some very stimulating and useful exchanges next month.
George Daniels
I personally feel the answer depends upon where in the learning cycle things are happening. If it is an advanced class - then a lot of new knowledge can be synthesizaed through these collaborative tools. On the other extreme - if the group consists primarily of novices - then these technologies can be a distraction.
The real key ios when technology learns to adapt to the learner's preferences, ability , and style and then begins to at least filter the information coming thier way.
I also do not think FaceBook is a good example to use. I feel that there is far more collaboration on sites such as LinkedIn and Plaxo, or in MMORPGs which leads to knowledge creation and "collection".
I look forward to the discussions: theory and practice.
Hi, I hope to meet you tomorrow and talk to you about this. Definitely think our students should be aware of how to use social media beyond Facebook and MySpace. I've integrated some podcasting and blogging into some of my classes, but not social media, so I'm interested in hearing your ideas.