Journal #8 Tapping the Wealth of Social Networks for Professional Development

Greenhow, C. (2009). Tapping the wealth of social networks for professional development. Learning & Leading with Technology, 8(36), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Publications/LL/LLIssues/Volume3620082009/JuneJulyNo8/L_L_June_July_2009.htm

This article offers some great insight on social networking. I liked how they associate facebook with learning. Often times individuals post photos they have taken, artwork, poems, or just express their emotions through text via status updates. Their peers, friends, and/or family may "like" or comment on these posts; this article suggests that the feedback from others motivates people to improve or continue their interaction. The author suggests that this social network is creating social learning opportunities. I think this is absolutely true and is a great way for students to keep their self esteem at a healthy level. I also liked what was said about twitter, if used correctly twitter can be a great tool to get questions answered and communicate with multiple people. New social networks are often times perceived as a waste of time, but this article proves otherwise and I appreciate the authors insight.

How could you use twitter in the classroom?
Similar to what Dr. Heil has set up for Education 422; teachers can set us a class page on twitter. This will allow students to ask the teacher and their peers questions on homework or class assignments. I think this would be great because students can get their questions answered from home in a timely manner and not have to wait for a response from their teacher.

Is it okay for teachers to add students on social networks like Facebook?
I would say no. Teachers need to keep a professional relationship with students and keep their social lives private.