We have been studying the Iditarod in 4th grade. I was actually 3 years old watching the mushers at the starting line in 1973 when the race began. My father was the communication specialist. We are going to skype with him later this week and compare on contrast the communication in 1973 and today.
Don't mistake social media for socializing. They're different -- just as kids talking as they work in groups or talking while hanging out are different.
This is something that has changed for me during this class, my thinking that if students were using social media during class time they would just be social chatting. However, it allows for them to collaborate and work with others outside of their classroom, using a tool that they enjoy using and are comfortable using. Just like in group work, they communicate academically, social media can also be used to communicate for academic purposes. Jmaley
Many students love to create and watch youtube videos. As youtube becomes more popular students are able to have their videos viewed by millions, receiving comments, and critiques by others on how to improve their work. It may also unleash producers, and directors that may not know they had a passion for that art form. ( Jmaley)
Social media is here and it is not going anywhere, it is only going to get larger and more accessible. Students will learn at a younger age how to use it and it is best if they learn the proper way to use and not to use it and how to learn from it and gain as much knowledge from having information at their fingertips from a vast amount of people. It is also best for teachers new and old to learn, and continue to learn as the apps and websites change in order to better themselves as teachers. ( Jmaley)
Social media is definitely here! I think the last sentence about it being a tool is incredibly important for people to know. It is not something to be feared or be anxious about. It is something that we can use to reach our students in another way; arguably, in a way they are more comfortable with. I think it is incredibly important for any educator to understand the power of social media as a collaborative tool for education
Julie, I agree that social media is here for the long haul. As technology increases, social media will be more accessible for students and teachers. One thing that I have learned throughout this course is that teachers continue to learn about social media and not just the students. Matt Schill
YES! This is something my CT and I talk about almost daily. Our freshmen cannot compose a grammatically correct, respectful email query to save their lives and it's horrifying. In addition to internet safety, etiquette is something that should not be taken for granted as something students come equipped knowing - in many instances, kids email how they text and that technique doesn't recognize shifts in tone or audience. If I receive another "hey, wut is the hwk tonite?" email sent from a student, I may scream. I absolutely will be adding a "how to email" mini lesson before I'm done with student teaching in 4 weeks. :)
That's a great idea, Sarah. Do they have a writing rubric to use as a guide for all writing? That might help as well....have the students help you create the rubric and post it in the room:).
Share your learning with the world. My students are creating an Encyclopedia of Learning Games (21) with Dr. Lee Graham's grad students at the University of Alaska Southeast. The educators are testing the games, and the students are testing them, too.
I actually had a similar idea to this for the math classroom I'm student teaching in. I have several online (virtual) math manipulatives that are good resources for further understanding of different math concepts. However, I would like students to be able to try them out, comment on them, and find new ones. I would like to compile the results (by topic) in one area so students in other classes or future classes could be aware they exist, go directly to helpful virtual manipulatives, and not waste time on ones that don't improve their understanding of the subject matter. (AHutmacher)
In my student teaching experience, I learned first-hand the importance of using manipulatives during math. However, I never realized that there were multiple virtual manipulatives. How effective are they? The advancement of technology is simply amazing. (Matt Schill)
Hi Matt, I've used several manipulatives while tutoring...geogebra has many saved activities that let students explore the different ways graphs change when you change the values of the coefficients, for example. The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives has a lot, as well as NCTM (Illuminations). I also like Interactivate (shodor.org).
This is very important! It is becoming a lost art, everyone should know how to write a letter. While I understand that email is a faster way of communication there is still importance in knowing how to write a letter. How could mailing a letter be more dangerous than what you can come across on the internet? (SJVinskofski)
I agree as well, even though there is internet ways to communicate, nothing beats a the human aspect that comes from a letter. I have been guilty of relying too heavily on email and found that family members felt disconnected from me. Just because I think email is a personable way to communicate, doesn't mean others do. I now make it a point to communicate via cards and little notes to family that is further away from me to keep that human aspect there. Students need to see the value in this as well. This reminds me of the cursive hand writing discussion where some schools feel there is no need to teach it. I can't imagine why not as there is no way to make it through life without being able to write, there just isn't... (Rich Bailey)
I could not agree more. Call me old school, but when I see LOL, SMH, etc. I sometimes cringe. I understand they have their place in the world now and email is here to stay too but there is so much gained by learning how to write letters. Beyond the aspect of learning the format, it helps you gain a better grasp of the English language too. There is nothing wrong with having students write. The more they write (whatever format), the better they become. I always used to tall my students, practice makes perfect. (Darren Smith)
Let your students write for the world. Linda Yollis' students (9) reflect about learning and classroom happenings.
Mrs. Yollis' 3rd grade students use Twitter to challenge other classes around the world to "mystery number" math problems. They tweet clues and their answers each week. She also did a great international vocab project using twitter and blogs. Show students how they can meaningfully connect with other students around the world. Gives social media a concrete and educational direction, rather than just socializing (the "social media myth"). A great tech-savy educator! (Liz Kelley)
I think this is a terrific idea to really help students be global! We have the capability to reach out to other countries and students at a finger tip now, why not integrate a lesson where the students work collaboratively globally and practice using social media. (Amy Rouchon)
This is something that has been fascinating me since we covered it a few weeks back in this class. I absolutely love the idea of working with other classes all across the country and the globe. Talk about a good way for you to familiarize your students with other cultures...especially if you are working with students who don't have much experience with what happens just outside their neighborhood. There are so many different projects you can exxplore by working with other students in different areas. (Darren Smith)
How fun would it be for students to be able to communicate with other classes? I love this idea because so many students have friends in other classes and it would be something to talk about during recess. It's also a great tool as educators to be able to share ideas across classrooms. (M. Hackett)
Darren - this is easy to do - start blogging about a topic, unit, etc. make it global - connect with another class and have students comment on each others' blogs. You'd need a rubric that shows them how to comment meaningfully and also how to reflect and make connections....but imagine the learning that would take place! -Dr. Fritz
Last year I observed 3 4th grade classes from around NY state video conferencing. Each class shared a presentation detailing the facts of the region of NY they lived in. The other two classes had to figure out the region they lived in by the clues they gave. Then they took turns asking questions about the length of the school day, recess schedule and how much snow they had. The students were all engaged and astonished that one school only had recess on Mondays.
Tweet or post status updates as a class. Teacher Karen Lirenman (7) lets students propose nuggets of learning that are posted for parents to read.
I think this is a great way for students to feel involved in the learning process! It helps for students to learn about using twitter in a safe environment while also communicating with parents, what a great idea.
Let's face it they probably are already doing this but they are way off topic. If we harness the power and social media and use it in the classroom we can guide these conversations toward a deeper level of understanding of the content or material. We have the opportunity and responsibilty to teach students to be responsible digital citizens. Ignoring social media will not make it go away and we as teachers can learn from our students as they teach us new ways to use social media.
Samantha, my biggest fear is that students would be checking their Facebook and Twitter accounts if social media was used in the classroom. However, I have learned how to effectively use social media in the classroom to ensure that this does not happen! Plus, if social media is used appropriately, students will be engaged and focused on task. Matt Schill
Great point Samantha! When social media tools are being used everywhere it should be our job to recognize this and figure out how we can use it to our advantage.
I can see where this could be a concern and as someone else stated, they are going to be doing it anyway. I however think that Facebook and those mentioned apps are not the only form of social media and if you introduce them to something new and captivating that you do want them to use, this could deter them from straying off... I am not faced with this for my profession however when training clinicians and other medical faculty, it's sometimes like herding cats but I have found that if I constantly keep them guessing and reiterating the WIIFM (whats in it for me), it tends to keep them on focus. Students sadly may not be too concerned with the WIIFM however they will be concerned if they possibly miss out on the coolest new social media tool... (Rich Bailey)
I have been learning that there is more to social media than facebook and twitter. There are a lot of great tools out there but, I think it is important that we teach our students and children to use them responsibily and appropriately.
Social media is another tool that you can use to make your classroom more engaging, relevant and culturally diverse.
If social media is used correctly, it can lead to creative thinking. Educators should be incorporating social media to keep students engaged as well as providing opportunities for students to connect with others. Matt Schill
Surely students will post thousands of status updates, pictures, and blogs in their lifetime.
This brings up a great point. One that we have all discussed a great deal at this point. It is a given that in this day of social media and technology, that students will surely be posting to facebook or twitter, or some other social media tool.
So, why not teach them how to use these and other tools responsibly? We've discussed many ways in which students can use social media tools in a responsible and appropriate manner. If these ideas are introduced early on, then maybe it will just become the norm, instead something that is discouraged.
Some teachers are even doing "tweets" on post-it notes (6) as exit tickets.
What a fantastic idea. I don't know that students in lower elementary grades would be ready for this yet, but it wouldn't be too far off to expect students in 4th and 5th grade to be able to do this. I think this would also keep students on task and interested in the lesson.
I think you bring up a great point Alanna! The student do it already, why not incorporate it in the classroom to something relevant?
If you're going to ignore social media in the classroom, then throw out the ISTE Standards for Students (24) and stop pretending that you're 21st century. Stop pretending that you're helping low-income children overcome the digital divide if you aren't going to teach them how to communicate online.
Technology and social media interaction are happening and they are all around us. It's time we learn that we can't avoid using these tools any longer. In order to help ALL students we need to use these tools - especially in the classroom. In the classroom, it doesn't matter whether they are low-income or not. They should all be given the chance to use every resources possible.
Alanna, I agree! I am currently taking another class with Drexel (Adult Learning Theory and Practice) and we were talking about higher education being online and how some argue it's not available to people without means of owning a computer. I disputed this as one much not own a computer to use one (libraries). Would owning one be more convenient, yes, but convenience isn't always an option when trying to get ahead in life. My point here is if we don't teach students about technology they may not access right not at home, doesn't mean they don't deserve to learn about it and doesn't mean they aren't empowered to make themselves get out of their low-income status and be successful in the future. If we limit students to an education based on the economics of their family and community, we are limiting them to living in that same economical state as an adult, which is a severe injustice for them to have those limitations placed on them. (Rich Bailey)
Are we opening up a whole dangerous world to our students once they are writing online and posting comments to each other?
Yes, but are we causing more harm to our students by NOT teaching them how to use this social media? Granted, using social media can be dangerous, but I still think we need to teach our students how to use the media. However, in teaching them how to use the media, we MUST teach them how to be safe. We need to teach our kids what they should and should not be posting on social media. I say teach them the media, but teach them how to use it safely.
Excellent point. We are opening up some dangerous ground but this kind of communication is here to stay. There is no way to keep them off social media so it is very important to teach them the responsible way to do it. We can only hope that they realize how serious it is and they pay attention to what we are saying. You know how many kids will say "That can never happen to me". (Darren Smith)
It's just another resource and doesn't have to be a distraction from learning objectives
If all teachers could realize this, the classroom would be a much different place. It still amazes me how some teachers view social media as a distraction in the classroom. If the media is used correctly, it is not a distraction in the classroom.
Agreed with most of what you said. However, I think Social Media CAN be a distraction but it is up to the teacher to figure out how to harness it's power and teach the student how to use it wisely. I think the key is to be consistent with what is proper and what is not. I am sure teachers will find some students that will push the envelope on acceptable use. (Darren Smith)
This entire check list is very important. I think that as teachers we need to make sure our students understand this. As adults who grew up without social media we too need to be aware that it is monitored. Those of us looking to become teachers should be very aware of what we share and like on our pages
This entire check list is very important. I think that as teachers we need to make sure our students understand this. As adults who grew up without social media we too need to be aware that it is monitored. Those of us looking to become teachers should be very aware of what we share and like on our pages
This line to me is the epitimy of what this semester is about. So many teachers are terrified of allowing students to be online. While I observe I see the faces of teachers who have been doing their job a long time, I think they believe that the computer is their competition. In reality the computer can be their biggest ally. I think most instructors know that having a child use a computer at home is great for research or paper writing. But many are not aware that we can use social media to enhance our teaching and benefit the understanding that the student take from our class. Social media is not the enemy or our competition if we use it correctly.
This line to me is the epitimy of what this semester is about. So many teachers are terrified of allowing students to be online. While I observe I see the faces of teachers who have been doing their job a long time, I think they believe that the computer is their competition. In reality the computer can be their biggest ally. I think most instructors know that having a child use a computer at home is great for research or paper writing. But many are not aware that we can use social media to enhance our teaching and benefit the understanding that the student take from our class. Social media is not the enemy or our competition if we use it correctly.
Before this course, I would have been scared to let students use social media during class. You made a really good point that teachers should be utilizing the computer/technology/social media to enhance the learning process. I now understand how to utilize different social media apps and tools to engage students. (Matt Schill)
blogs
One form of writing is that powerful.
If you guessed social media, you're right.
Traditional writing it important in the classroom - paper and pencil. Students also learn the different types of writing (essays, research, letters) but with this generation, social media is a powerful and important writing tool. The students are familiar and use social media on a daily basis. Why not provide a secure environment where students can work on social media writing - learning abou the ettiquette, dos and don'ts as well as a supplemental tool to their writing portfolio.
I think of my 8 month old and her ability to swipe left and right on my husbands Kindle already! Our children are exposed to all sorts go technology from birth and we should exposed them to it but responsibly. I remember telling my husband, i didn't want her to watch tv too early or be exposed to technology without loving the pages of a book first... It's definitely hard, can be done, be technology and social media should be in moderation. -Jess Ross
Jess,your comment took me back to another article I read about how today's young people's brains have been completely rewired and almost programmed to be receptive to technology. But your concern as to how to behave in a parentally responsible way with regard to when and how to introduce your young child to technology made me also recall earlier articles I read about the many tech-employed parents working in Silicon Valley and how they have elected not to expose their preschool and elementary children to technology and social media because these, they believe, " inhibit creative thinking, movement, human interaction and attention spans." Like you, many want their children to discover of the magic of turning a page of a book and getting lost in it. Here is a like to one such article: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/23/technology/at-waldorf-school-in-silicon-valley-technology-can-wait.html?_r=0 (O. McBride)
Thanks O. It is amazing the how many folks in Silicon Valley have the outlook. I understand their theory, however, i do understand that our work is saturated with it and it's many time necessary to even communicate and learn. I'm looking forward to digging in to this resource and reading a little more on this subject. Thanks for the article! :) -Jess Ross
I JUST LOVE THIS. This is everything I hope for in my future classroom. As I have been planning my final project, I felt as if I was starting out with something way to involved and was thinking about scrapping it all. After reading this, I am keeping it and am up for the challenge, as the students will get so much out of the experience! Awesome to hear how it works in other classrooms. I will have to check out her Twitter to see how it is unfolding! (Shannon Feerrar)
This is definitely a shining example of how successful it can be for an educator. I know I would love to implement some kind of technology into my classroom and the way this teacher is doing it is a great inspiration. The engagement piece of the students is is something we all strive for and how to change it up so our students want to keep asking those questions!
-Andrea Zajac
I have worked with and spoken to dozens of educators who strongly feel that engaging in social media is irrelevant for them because of their students' age
I feel as if this is a common "argument." As we learn more about the benefits of utilizing social media within the younger classroom, we have to share the positives and how we are going to change any difficulties that we faced. Hopefully that will allow for others to understand and see the benefits with utilizing social media in the younger classrooms.
Social media in the classroom, specifically the younger classroom is a key element to learning in my opinion. Students are already so tech savvy that we need to help them learn how they already know how. Our school district just blocked Pinterest from the computers because it is a social media site. Lots of teachers use that for their lessons though so they are working on getting that resolved.
It's all about education - most of the administrators in the district probably have never been educated on social media - so they are afraid of it. If you create meaningful learning experiences using social media, then share it with others - invite them into your classroom to see how your students could benefit. Change takes time but it only takes one "irritation" in the system to begin that change. Dr. Fritz
Local districts in Lancaster have all started to participate in more technology in the classroom and the whole social media idea. I am not sure what district started it but it just seemed like all of a sudden everything went paperless and we were to be subscribing to district apps to keep up on what is going on. (Shannon Feerrar)
I am seeing an increase in the use of social media in my school district, but with just the younger teachers and particulary in Kindgergarten. At my school, the kindergarten teachers have a website for their grade. They also use bar codes and other means to increase student participation during class. I have had training on these techniques, but have not used them yet. (Dawn Lynn)
This fall, however, they uncovered a new dimension for Twitter. In October, one member of the class found himself trapped in New York during Hurricane Sandy. Kristin Ziemke and her students used Twitter and their blogs to learn about the storm while also checking on their classmate's well being. She describes the experience in her blog:
To add a sticky note right to the highlight, after you highlight - hover your mouse over the top left of the highlighted text. Then, a menu will appear - click the down arrow and add your note. -Dr. Fritz
I am amazed by the creativity too Shannon. (Fareed Adams)
Students already have enough screen time.
Students need to be able to communicate in person.
Students don't need to know about social media at this point -- it isn't age appropriate.
I found this portion of the article to be very helpful. Since starting this class, I have focused mainly on the positives that social media has on students and the classroom. However, these three bullets make very compelling concerns/arguments for social media in the classroom. I feel it is important to gain a wide range of facts/opinions on topics even if you still feel the positives outweigh the negatives!
- Mark Ferko
These bullets are so true. The students are going home after school and sitting on some form of technology. Most think of social media as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, those sorts of things. I thought that too until I started taking this course. There is lots that students can use as far as social media that isn't along those lines.
I found this conclusion to the article to be very summative of the importance of social media in the classroom. The one part I especially liked as "whether you introduce social media to students through a class blog, individual student blogs, Twitter or paper, there is NO "right way" to begin".
-- Mark Ferko
I agree this is a great way to end the article. I think the part where it states "we introduce all children to social media in appropriate and meaningful ways" is key. To teach digital citizenship then we have to decipher the context for how are students are to be engaged and what they should be doing to create a proper learning experience still even online.
- Andrea Zajac
I agree that "teaching students about social media in appropriate and meaning ways" is very important. I remember learning typing in middle school in the early '90's, and how bored I was with only typing certain letters with certain fingers. I was really excited to type and use a computer, but I was not engaged because what we were doing was not meaningful. So important!
Whether you introduce social media to students through a class blog, individual student blogs, Twitter or paper, there is no "right way" to begin. Do I really feel that toddlers should Tweet? Probably not. However, what's important is that we introduce all children to social media in appropriate and meaningful ways, regardless of their age, such that they can connect to a global audience and develop as empowered, networked learners.
If we honestly think about it, we were all taught the "social media" of our time in early elementary school. Remember the friendly letter? How about thank you notes? Telephone etiquette? In early grades, none of us were expected to master these skills independently, but they were integrated into our curriculum so that effective social behavior could be modeled at a young age
I found this to be a very amazing and thought out point. It was a great addition to the article and really made a nice reference to past years before today's "social media" was around!
-- Mark Ferko
Students will be needing these media skills as they matriculate into middle and high school. For a student who is shy, this can be another way for them to communicate. (K.Maguire)
I completely agree and I hadn't thought of this before the article. We introduce these concepts to students at an early age and social media is another medium where students are sharing their ideas. I do think the difference is that a letter and phone call are private between two people. Social media opens up our thoughts and opinions up to a great world and because of that we need to educate our students as early as possible. (M.Brown)
Playing Devils advocate side: it also opens up for the lack of being responsible with communication, hence the large amount of cyber bullying and sharing of personal information. It is IMPERATIVE that we teach our students what is appropriate and inappropriate media manners. As teachers we also need to make sure we are aware of what is going on within our own sites and student usage in school. This seems to be fairly easy with programs to see what our students are doing on the computer as they are doing it. (Shannon Feerrar)
I am also going to play devils advocate here because I think there is a loss of letter writing and cards in our world today. I did a lesson this past spring for pre-student teaching on card writing and the students loved it. They wanted to write more than one card. I think we have to teach our students how to be good writers first before we direct them to a social media environment. This can easily be done as we teach students and I agree it has to be appropriate with their writing. "You" is not spelled "U". Maybe I am sentimental, but I was just thinking the other day when we think about how people recorded history we had letters to help us piece some of it together. I would like students to still hold value to the power of writing. One word said wrong and posted out to the world could change their whole life.
-Andrea Zajac
I walked past their blog walls. To teach the concept of posting and commenting, the students created physical blogs on bulletin boards in the hallway of the school
This was very interesting to see. I had never thought of using a blog as a form of writing for students in elementary level. The classroom that I am student teaching in is a preK classroom. They don't know how to type but they are journaling. They draw a picture and then write about it. If I had a higher classroom, I would think about blogging as their writing. (E. Soble)
For the younger students, you could add their drawing to VoiceThread. THen, the students could "speak" their comments/story about the picture! -Dr. Fritz
What a wonderful idea! Showing students that really they are making a poster that has their ideas and opinions goes a long way to making the internet and posting less abstract. (M.Brown)
I found this interesting as well. It is a great way to work on the pre-writing process with students as well as incorporating an introduction to how to use social media. I have seen some teachers do the whole Instagram or Selfie walls, but this to me would be more connected and more structural because then the students can actually go and write on their class blog. I agree Kindergarteners would love to record themselves. Knowing that we are working on fundamentals at this point in the year I see this being a great lesson activity for later in the year when they have gained some reading and more writing skills. They would feel more confident in their "voice" to want to record it. This is why I like the resource StoryBird it is a similar concept, but even this Croak.It resource would be nice for the students to use.
-Andrea Zajac
I love this idea! I did something similar with a Google+ profile for the class, and they decorated the board with their profile information as a class. The kids really enjoyed expressing themselves as a class.
Now that I know how easy it is to use voice thread, I could see using this tool in elementary school and having the kids make a presentation for the classroom or even the school! (Dawn Lynn)
In just the past few weeks, Kristen Wideen's students have shared math stories with a class in Iowa and frog data with a class in Singapore
This lends itself to the concept of flat classroom. As adults, it is necessary to collaborate across the globe in science and medicine. It's a great opportunity for students to build on their learning from another perspective. -K. Maguire
It would also help encourage accepting others and respecting others opinions. It will also allow students to open their minds and possibly learn a new way to to something. (Shannon Feerrar)
This type of interaction is great. Not only does it let students share what they are learning, but it allows them to see how other students learn, and how their culture is different (C.Loring)
Lately, the grade 1/2 students in Kristen Wideen's class have been studying tadpoles and frogs. I know this because I've seen their Padlet wall of questions, witnessed the delivery of tadpoles, and watched a young boy read to his amphibian friend -- all through Twitter
This highlights the way social media can be so helpful to bringing parents and the community into the classroom. Parents can feel connected to their children's learning which means they will hopeful be able to engage with their children better and more easily.
Anything that helps with parent involvement is always a plus!!!
Kristen Wideen originally created a class Twitter account so that her students could begin to engage in the cultivation of their own Personal Learning Networks (PLNs). Her students not only learn, but also share their learning with a broader community. Whether through whole-group Twitter activities and Skype, calls or individual KidBlogs, these students recognize that there are connections to be made beyond their Ontario classroom -- all while working on their reading, writing, communication and collaboration.
This is proof that elementary students can benefit from social media. Young learners and their families can see the advantages of using social in the classroom and young students are taught, at an early age, proper use of social media tools.
My students were empowered to be part of a learning network that was for students, by students. So often, young children only have access to information that is filtered through an adult channel. While oftentimes that is appropriate, kids also need the model of other children as information providers
There were many things said in this article, but I find this quote to be just as profound. We want our students to feel empowered and be a part of the learning process. In a social media context the students really do get to do this. I hesitate on how to introduce this at such a young age, but as models for our students we can help guide them in the right direction.
-Andrea Zajac
This also speaks to a classroom being student led instead of always being teacher led. I love to watch students work together and teach each other. This is one area where I see the need for improvement in my teaching style and technology is one tool to increase this type of learning in the classroom. (Dawn Lynn)
Student led learning seems particularly important with online resources since its something so many people use on their own. The more students practice exploring online resources and learn how to use online resources to accomplish tasks, the more students will be able to do this on their own. With the fast pace of that technology is evolving, its imperative that students learn to explore new online tools because new ones come along so often and old ones change in time. Timothy Conley
With the resources mentioned hear such as KidBlogs and Croak.It there is a better understanding of how to implement social media in a classroom at a younger age. Before these I do not feel there would have been much success nor would teachers felt safe. The more tools available that offer a safe environment for students more teachers are going to want to use them.
-Andrea Zajac
Comments
Social media enables the creation of meaningful connections
Meaningful connections! Because technology surrounds our ever day life... these are the "authentic and relevant connections" our children make with the world. It's the way they communicate. Although, face-to-face connections are important,educators should continue to find ways to teach children within this foundation, meeting their need and source of connection. -Jess Ross
I also think this is important to students who may have social anxiety. Although it may be impossible for them to talk to someone in person, they may open up a lot more on social media/through technology (C.Loring)
I highlighted this section of the article introducing Social Media to Elementary Students because I think it emphasizes the importance for hands on activities for elementary school students.
I highlighted this section of the article introducing Social Media to Elementary Students because I think it emphasizes the importance for hands on activities for elementary school students. (Fareed Adams)
This would be great to share with parents on Back to School Night because we often hear concerns from parents over amounts of screen time at home and they want their child to have opportunities for typical social time activities like recess at school. - Kathryn Maguire
Collectively, they would discuss their learning experiences as a class, before Tweeting out their thoughts, questions and ideas to their broader learning community.
I think this is what makes tweeting so dynamic because you can transcend the confines of the classroom and connect with the broader community. (Fareed Adams)
Not only did social media empower this student, but it also provided her with a global audience. In 18 days, she received 42 comments from teachers, family members and other adults from across the continent. By empowering her students with the use of social media, Kristin Ziemke connects them to a global audience and introduces them to the complex communication required to be effective digital citizens.
For teachers who have only started to explore the uses of social media for their own professional development, much less with their students, setting children loose on blogs or Twitter can seem daunting.
Getting something started with something new can sometime scare people. For people who are not technologically inclined this could be even worse. I've heard teachers in the past shy away from technology instead of embracing it because they aren't tech savvy. As teachers, we need to assume that new things and ideas will come out and we have to jump on board. In the end, students benefit from this and that's the number one priority.
As I said, I agree. However, if used effectively, social media can transform a student's learning experience.
Communicating with students from other environments can be valuable. Students can share things that they are good at as well as things that they struggle with. It is powerful for a child to hear from another child from a place outside their immediate realm. - K. Maguire
"Children need to interact in a face to face setting". Children who are a bit shy will have an easier time face to face when they're online. -Jeannine McGoldrick
Beth Holland, communication coordinator and instructor at EdTech Teacher, gives three age-appropriate examples of introducing social media to children in the lower elementary grades.
The more I reflect on introducing social media to our elementary students, the more I wonder if we are teaching them that they are not relevant unless they are connected to a group of individuals beyond their physical environment, or to subconsciously validate themselves by the number of likes or comments they receive from their followers...#hmmmm~ Marissa Williams
"To teach the concept of posting and commenting, the students created physical blogs on bulletin boards in the hallway of the school." Before actually introducing a social media tool in the class we could have a blog wall to teach students #posting, #commenting and reflection to stare and frame their conversations and get them familiar with the process.
iEARN (International Education and Resource Network) is the world's largest non-profit global network that enables teachers and youth to use the Internet and other technologies to collaborate on projects that enhance learning and make a difference in the world.
I model creating a positive digital footprint by making effective use of social networking and blogging. I owe my students that much -- after all, if they don't take control of their online identities, someone else will.
This is so helpful and true, we need to model appropriate and responsible use to help guide our students properly when it comes to developing an online identity, and I don't think that so many educators should be so negative about social media when many of them do not really understand much about it at all, and only seek to demonize and limit students' access. - L. Beeson
I think this raises a good point. Someone can have an image of who you are without even a word; all they have to do is look you up on social media. I make sure that my Facebook and Instagram are appropriate in case parents or anyone searches for me. I am proud for what I put out in the social media world. I try to have a positive message and I believe others should too. M. Paul
More than anything else, I want students to share their passions and interests with the world.
I hope to have a class blog that encourges collaboration helps to provide students with a positive model for understanding what appropriate and positive blogging is and how it can be use to involve others within that community, because we want to create inclusive communities to involve students and families in the thing we are doing within the classroom. I like the idea of having students blog as a component of their free writing, to share their work and knowledge with a larger audience than only within the classroom. - L. Beeson
If social media isn't bad, why do we exclude students from becoming our "friends"? By excluding students from our page, aren't we inherently telling them there is something wrong with social media?
We are protecting ourselves by creating a healthy boundary. Students need to see teachers as teachers, someone they can learn from and go to for advice and help, not as a friend. Showing students your Facebook page, models good web behavior, but maintains boundary.
I accept requests from graduated students. However, I do not send them requests or message them without them messaging me first. I have also carefully curated my facebook profile to be student-friendly.
I never accept friend requests from current or former students. My private social media use is about my private life. Students should not know everything that I do outside of the school setting. C. Spina
I think there is a fine line for teachers and social media. I agree that students should wait until graduation before friend requesting their teachers, and that a teacher's Facebook page should always remain student friendly! -Julia Wisniewski
I have read different articles about this topic. The opinions pieces have all stated that there is a certain wisdom in drawing a line when you are in a professional position. These articles applied to many professions, not just teachers. I think there are certain relationships and situations that are exceptions though. It is for each person to make that determination. It is always a good idea to make proper content choices with what you are posting but even what you think to be proper content could be viewed in a different light depending upon who is viewing it. (W.Kerr)
I think that this is a personal decision that teachers need to make. The professional and ethical guidelines for teachers are quite clear. But you need to examine the example that your Facebook might be for your young students, and decide whether you feel it is appropriate to share it as as model that would make accessible for your students. If you have any concern about the way you utilize Facebook as a part of your digital and offline life, you might be better off keeping it private and not mentioning it to students. - L. Beeson
I don't think my Facebook profile needs to be "student friendly" whatsoever because I am entitled to my private and personal life! We are not showing an example of Facebook being bad by not accepting our students, rather we are demonstrating how powerful privacy can be and that they should understand how to protect their privacy from certain people as well. I love my students, I love my job, but I do not need every single corner of my life to be included in my teaching career. I do however think our Facebook profiles need to be completely private so that only our friends can see what we post. I have made mine so privatized that not even my friends list or location is visible to the public. -P. Fradin
I agree with not becoming social media friends with current or former students. Especially in today's climate, I personally think it could lead to some ethics questions. I have heard that some teachers will friend their former students a few years after graduation, if the student initiates contact. Right now, my opinion is to not friend former students, but that could change in the future. - Jason Lopez
I encourage students to follow people that they genuinely admire and from whom they want to learn, not just celebrities, thereby contributing to a positive digital identity.
I think this is a great point. Adults and students should be reminded that social media tools are not just for following celebrities and athletes. It is a real tool that can connect students to experts and organizations in the fields they are interested in. Using social media to connect with a favorite author is not a "waste of time", but very proactive and engaging learning. - Alex Kenkelen (EDUC 611-901)
I completely agree Alex. Before this class I only used Twitter to follow celebrities and friends. I actually thought twitter was pretty useless to be honest. However, I was unaware of all the resources available on twitter. Twitter is much more than just a way to kill some times, it can lead you to actual organizations and resources online. -L. Corso
Great point, Alex. This is exactly the mindset I had when entering this course. I had a twitter account, and only followed a handful of people, and they were mostly all celebrities. Never in a million years would I have considered using it for educational purposes. It's amazing to think how much my mind has been opened since the start of this class! When students are able to have access people who they look up to, their learning automatically becomes engaging. It's so exciting to be able to have a direction connection through twitter to people we admire and from which we can learn so much. -Genevieve Kelly
Alex i couldn't agree more. Too many people today get sucked into whats cool or popular today without taking the time to think about who they follow and why. It is important to give it some thought before following things randomly, i believe it makes the world of difference especially on an app like twitter - Jonathan Price
Educators have an obligation to investigate and talk with students about social networking sites, some of which promote inappropriate, illicit behavior.
This was my initial thought about social media and education. The potential for inappropriate behavior is very high. But now I realize that it would be much more effective to take preventive measures: a responsible technology use class or a frank discussion about the implications of having these accounts. Doing this might save administrators from future incidents. - Alex Kenkelen (EDUC 611-901)
I have discussed the use of Snapchat with my students numerous times. The students still do not seem to realize that what they post can be saved and shared forever. C. Spina
The technology is the easy part, though. The real challenge is producing quality content on a regular basis, and making wise use of social networking to promote one's work.
This is why it is so important for students to have good examples of quality content and guidance in ways to achieve it. They also need to be aware of why it is so important to be thoughtful about everything they post. This profile could professionally make or break them.
This is very true, and we certainly can share items that you want to further develop and improve, but you may want to keep that within a smaller critical audience, before posting and sharing it with the Internet at large. You want to share your best (and most thought-out) work when you are sharing it online. - L Beeson
I think this would be the most challenging when it comes to blogs. The format seems to be so casual that it can be difficult to determine what kind of information should make the cut. I have also heard about blogs being a great business opportunity but it's definitely something that's lost on me! -E. Braun
This social networking site is often described as the "Facebook for professionals," but its potential is just as rich for students, who should use it to highlight their accomplishments and interests.
I believe LinkedIn is great for HighSchool and College students to get their resume and accomplishments out to the professional world. I connect with college students when they ask so they can see my connections and maybe find someone they can connect to for networking.
I disdain this tool, but I don't tell students not to use it. Such an authoritarian approach, however well meaning, rarely proves fruitful. Instead, I ask my students to discuss what assumptions, true or not, could be made about anybody who has an account.
This is an incredibly student-centered and respectful approach. I think that discussion can go a long way to help students organize their thoughts and make thoughtful decisions.
produce engaging, high-quality content, the kind that makes them stand out not only to college admission officers, but also to potential employer
I think that is incredibly important to educate our students how to properly use social media. I have had many incidents where students misused social media. Most of these students do not realize that these inappropriate posts can later negatively impact their lives. C. Spina
I agree with you regarding the importance of educating students how to use social media properly, and if we can appropriately model how to use it, and share those examples with our students it will help them to become the responsible digital citizens of tomorrow. We need to ensure that they are taught how to utilize and use social media and technology properly so they are able to make educated choices about how they choose to utilize it within their own lives. - L. Beeson
This is one of the big things I've been thinking about throughout this class. Many of us in the class had a very narrow definition of social media before beginning the class. Students need to be taught both what not to do and what to do. I never knew that most of these resources existed but I'm glad I do now! -E. Braun
I also ask if Snapchat can greatly enhance a positive digital footprint
I disagree with you here. Although some people may use snap chat in appropriate ways, I do not believe the majority of snaps are inappropriate- it all depends on the student using it. -L. Corso
I do not use this tool, and honestly know very little about it, but clearly this is something I need to educate myself about better to be able to be an appropriate guide for students within my classroom. I know that many social media tools can be used inappropriately, so I need to know as much about the most popular and widely used tools, whether I think they are potentially useful or beneficial. This discussion has really helped me to realize that I need to learn more before I am able to appropriately guide my students in using different social media tools. - L. Beeson
I disagree as well - I think snapchat has a poor reputation because of the ability to send something that might be inappropriate, but I think this only increases its allure to students. I think the majority of people sending snaps use it like twitter, but with pictures. - P. Cammiso
I also feel that it is possible to use snapchat educationally. It gets a bad rap. On the snap story page of this app, there are stories for different events and topics trending around the world. For example, there is currently a snap story about the Flint Water Crisis. CNN has a snapchat channel. Snapchat will send representatives to cover these events and topics so that the users of the app can view the happenings and videos first hand. Though I feel that snapchat ABSOLUTELY gets used for non-educational purposes, it's not all bad. -Genevieve Kelly
I think the key to responsible Snapchat use is no different than any other social media tool, including email. Students need to learn that NOTHING goes away once it is on the internet. They need to see all internet communication as if they are postcards (if they even know what those are). Jim Whetzel
I explain how my page makes a strong, lasting statement about who I am and what I value. I always think twice before sharing any content, and I tell students that before I hit "Post," I imagine friends or loved ones looking over my shoulder. What would they think?
I think this is a really interesting way to look at Facebook from an educators perspective! I think that, through it is very important to not simply tell students Facebook is BAD and we should never use it, but rather give them tools and a better understanding of how to interact with others online! I think this activity is great for students to internalize and further understand the importance of digital citizenship online. -Julia Wisniewski
I definitely agree with you here Julia. It is important that we teach them how to use social media responsibly and to always think before posting. I do this all the time and consider whether or not what is posted could potentially offend someone or paint a bad picture of me in other peoples' eyes.
Carissa McGuigan
Along those lines, it has never been easier to create a blog and help make that sharing a reality. Wix and Weebly offer an array of templates with intuitive drag-and-drop options
It is true, Weebly is such a user friendly site that really helps even the most beginners utilize tools! I have first started using Weebly this year and it is extremely beneficial to me! -Julia Wisniewski
anything
When it comes to creating a dynamic curriculum vitae, all students (especially seniors) should direct admission officers and potential employers to LinkedIn
I have never found a use for LinkedIn, nor do I know anyone who has made connections or found employment through it. Can you please offer your insight to me about how it is useful for us? I am truly curious! -P. Fradin
, I also ask if Snapchat can greatly enhance a positive digital footprint. The answer is usually a resounding "No," and I leave it to students to decide if they wish to register or keep their Snapchat accounts active.
I think this is a very social media app that should be addressed. I use snapchat but I am careful about what I post and don't feel that I ever abuse this tool. However, I do know that some people I follow post things that they feel is "ok" to post because it will supposedly be erased. What is posted on snapchat by these people could potentially ruin their careers in my opinion and I feel that if it is something you wouldn't post on facebook then you shouldn't post it on snapchat either. It is important to have this discussion with students too being that they likely use this app with their friends. I think it is vital that the students are aware that what they post is never truly lost and leaves a digital footprint that could potentially come back to haunt them depending on what it is that they post. I do feel that it is important to discuss the idea of a digital footprint and what it means and how it can impact your future regardless of which social media you use.
-Carissa McGuigan
Still, I'm a firm believer in using class time to show students my profile. I explain how my page makes a strong, lasting statement about who I am and what I value. I always think twice before sharing any content, and I tell students that before I hit "Post," I imagine friends or loved ones looking over my shoulder. What would they think?
I also ask if Snapchat can greatly enhance a positive digital footprint. The answer is usually a resounding "No," and I leave it to students to decide if they wish to register or keep their Snapchat accounts active.
I think that snapchat has more pros than cons.. I use snapchat but I am careful about what I post and don't feel that I ever abuse this tool. Snapchat is very popular today and I know many students at the highschool I student teach at use it. I do know that some people I follow from college and from the high school I attended will post things that they feel is "ok" to post because it will supposedly be erased. What is posted on snapchat by these people could potentially ruin their careers in my opinion and I feel that if it is something you wouldn't post on facebook then you shouldn't post it on snapchat either. It is important to have this discussion with students too being that they likely use this app with their friends. I think it is vital that the students are aware that what they post is never truly lost and leaves a digital footprint that could potentially come back to haunt them depending on what it is that they post. I do feel that it is important to discuss the idea of a digital footprint and what it means and how it can impact your future regardless of which social media you use. Carissa McGuigan
I believe this is a powerful question that could make many students opt out of this platform. Those who are just using it for fun would certainly not want to be thought as sneaky or as sending inappropriate messages.
Educators do students a tremendous disservice by demonizing Facebook, which can enhance a student's online presence and real-world prospects
In today's day and age, I feel it is very important to harness social media in the classroom as it is part of every students life. While Facebook has its challenges, proper use and monitoring can be advantageous to students as they can form professional relationships beneficial with future endeavors. I believe we as teachers to to analyze various social media platforms in order to determine safe and effective use within school.
This is so relevant! More than once, I have witnessed educators put down facebook to their students. Facebook is a forbidden tool in the classroom, and its use in an educational setting is so often frowned upon. While many aspects of facebook are not appropriate for school, teachers need to educate their students regarding how to use facebook in ways that are appropriate. Facebook can be useful for invaluable networking and professoinal opportunities. -Genevieve Kelly
I had no idea LinkedIn had evolved to include this type of information. I have always been under the impression that it was, essentially, a place to post your resume and "tag" those with whom you shared work experiences, etc. ~S. Owens
We need to teach and encourage students to post original, outstanding content that will distinguish their unique identities in a sea of increasingly indistinguishable resumes -- which are going the way of the typewriter.
Throughout graduate school, I have been posting original ideas. While I enjoy writing and reflecting on many topics, posting content is not the same as understanding information on a topic. I could post my thoughts on addition or subtraction, but that doesn't mean I would know how to add or subtract. I could post original thoughts on what I think or feel about music or art, but that does not mean that I understand the technicalities of art and music. I think it is a shame that education is going in the direction of carrying on about topics and knowing how to become graphic designers to design our opinions in a new and exciting way. Posting original and outstanding content on a website is not the same as creating an original and outstanding work of art. While I feel that it is helpful to know how to create eye-catching posts, I hope that doesn't take away from the time of students learning to become scientists, doctors, engineers, etc.
I don't follow current students on my Twitter handle, nor do I accept private messages from them.
I have a Twitter solely for my PLN in education. I find it different than Facebook in that Facebook is solely for my private and personal life, and I like having a part of me that is separate from work. However I think that Twitter is a great tool for education-as clearly does the author-and I am not sure why he wouldn't follow his students. Wouldn't his following his students encourage them to post relevant and positive material? -P. Fradin
I chose this quote because it exemplifies how Twitter can be used to connect with causes. While a lot of people are concerned with what they personally post to Twitter, here is an example of what can come from Twitter when used appropriately. Furthermore, through the use of Twitter, students can form new relationships that they can learn from, which will impact their success.
I explain how Twitter has led to a long list of opportunities, relationships, and exchanges -- both online and in person -- contributing greatly to my personal and professional success
I think that it is important to show students quality Social Media accounts. Students need to see examples of people, places and events to follow. With this guidance students are far better equiped to explore the app themselves. Twitter and other Social media Apps can help you build new relationships from places and people you would have never had the opportunity to meet or have a conversation with. - Jonathan Price
Wow this is interesting! I never would have thought of actually showing my own page in the classroom but reading the reasons why makes sense. The best ways to teach students is to model and I guess this is just one way of doing that. -E. Braun
I think this is very important to teach ourselves as well as our students about the permanency of online content as well as forming positive followings. My brother posed a question the other day about teaching students about social media responsibility because many of them are ruining their carreers before they get them because of what they post...
,...this is what he said...
"Social media training needs to be a requirement in HS and college moving forward. Companies monitor that stuff. It could mean the difference between getting even an interview, getting hired, or keeping your job"
Laurenavasmom less than a minute ago
I do, however, encourage them to observe how I engage with others to expand my network. I hope they follow suit.
I think this raises a good point. One I never thought of LinkedIn to be useful for students but I am glad to now know and also it give the opportunity to show your credibility. In today's world people can really claim anything on the internet so this is a nice option so employers or networkers can know that someone is telling the truth. M. Paul
My aim is not to frighten students away from Facebook, but rather to help them see how their profile can lead to positive connections and real-world opportunities.
I think this raises a good point that Facebook can help make positive connections and helps network. I know I have found friends on Facebook but I have also used it for business getting out of not only our geographic area but being in the Facebook world allows people with similar interests to join your group or like you page creating a stronger global connection. M. Paul
Along those lines, it has never been easier to create a blog and help make that sharing a reality. Wix and Weebly offer an array of templates with intuitive drag-and-drop options
I have used Wix and Weebly and both are very easy to use and great for "non techy" people like myself, but they still offer so much to make a great finished site. M. Paul
I explain how my page makes a strong, lasting statement about who I am and what I value. I always think twice before sharing any content, and I tell students that before I hit "Post," I imagine friends or loved ones looking over my shoulder. What would they think?
This is an excellent idea. In my past life, before I considered becoming a teacher, I might have benefited from this advice. Now, that I am a teacher, this is even more crucial to think about. It needs to be reinforced in the students' minds that they need to be careful about posting online and that what you put out there, never really goes away. - Jason Lopez
I urge students to share digital versions of their best work to highlight their unique passion and potential
This is an excellent idea, especially for the artists and writers in your class. It cannot hurt to start building an online profile, sooner rather than later, and a student showcasing their work is a great start. LinkedIn would be a good beginning for students to create a professional online presence. However, students need to be shown that care and attention needs to be paid to this presence and like other social media platforms, they should always exercise proper judgement before posting and/or sharing anything. - Jason Lopez