Use of Scocial Networking in Educational Setting

I could see many applications for on-line social networking and the Technical College setting in which I work. This type os network could be used to keep the different faculty in each of the technical college systems in touch. They could collaborate through this mechanism and share announcements or information as needed. In addition, it would be a good way for college faculty from all over the world to connect to each other and share information. I can also imagine that it would be a way to bridge the sometimes "gap" (be it real or percieved) between faculty at the community/technical college system and the 4 year collges and universities.

0 members like this

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Sarah on February 5, 2009 at 1:17pm

I think social networking can be a really helpful classroom tool, so long as it's closely monitored and discussed openly. If the internet is used in a thoughtful way (as with any technology), I think there will always be a place for it in schools. For example, instead of encouraging students to automatically trust Google and Wikipedia, encourage them to use human-powered alternatives, such as www.sweetsearch.com and www.findingDulcinea.com. About.com and Encyclopedia Britanica also have excellent, trustworthy information online.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Steve Hargadon on February 5, 2009 at 6:50pm

Hi, Karen. Sounds like a good idea. You might want to check out http://socialnetworksined.wikispaces.com for examples of other educational networks!

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Angela Siefer on February 5, 2009 at 8:16pm

Oh my gosh Steve, that is the most complete list of niche eduction social networks I have seen yet.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Ojas Ray on February 5, 2009 at 8:51pm

Social Networking is the way to go now. Think about the millions of students who have aim or facebook. The best way to effectively get to a kid is to incorporate these sorts of tech into the lesson and into the classroom. It makes learning personal once again. And that is when a student will gain the MOST from it. Just check out the thousands of professionals in this network.