5-4 Blog: Social Networking

Today, educators have increasing pressures and obligations to prepare students for the ever-changing 21^st century. The jobs of yesterday simple do not exist. Students must be prepared to navigate this new technological world to compete. In addition students need to utilize this technology safely. With that said it is the school community’s obligation to keep digital usage in schools safe with the intent to use digital tools for learning.

Collective web 2.0 digital tools such as Wikis, Instagram and blogs, are being used on a daily bases by our 21^st century learners. These are all common places our students use to socially network. There can be many positive outcomes by integrating social networks into our schools as well as some negatives.

Social networking provides real-world learning and provides students with familiar tools that are being utilized in today’s job markets. Such as blogs to share ideas and finding with other colleagues. Students can utilize class blogs by sharing their ideas and findings on particular class assignment. Teachers can also use this blog for assessments and guidance’s. Social networking can also be a wonderful tool for student engagement because of its popularity amongst our students.

Pitfalls utilizing social networking in schools are possible cyber-bulling amongst students that can be a deterrent aimed at student learning. Another con is keeping students from using the network for negative socializing. There are many more alleged pitfalls in utilizing social networking in schools, but the fact is that school leaders need to keep online interactions positive with the intent to learn. Teachers and administration need to Report any incident of harassment, or anything that is inappropriate on or offline. Leaders need to ensure all of the school community understands the appropriate use of social media. All in all similarities between digital social networking are very much the same as typical social interactions. All social interactions demand the same level of citizenship and consciences for misconduct.