Social Networking the Classroom: Why You Should Give It A Chance

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I blog about a lot of social networking sites that I think could be valuable tools for classroom use. I am aware of the controversy that sometimes surrounds social networking sites, and I see a lot of teachers refrain from using social networking to avoid "trouble." If you are someone who avoids social networking, let me assure you that the positives can far outweigh the negatives if the tool is used correctly. 

I, too, used to be wary of using social networking in my classroom. Although I am a self-proclaimed "tech-junkie," I understand the risks involved if it is not executed properly. I was browsing the internet one time, reading random articles and blogs over technology in the classroom when I came upon an article that took my view of social networking and turned it upside down.

I wish I could remember the article, the author, or the website where I read this, because I would love to give proper credit. Since I have not been able to find this website again, I can do no such thing. The thoughts expressed below were not originally mine, but I am writing this post in my own words. Behold:

Social Networking for the Classroom?

Yes, social networking (Facebook, Twitter, blogs, etc.) sites have caused problems for kids and teachers in the past, and yes, those problems can still arise today. I'm not denying that.

But I urge you to think about this: What kinds of negative things can students do with pencil(s) and paper? They can tune out of a discussion in order to doodle. They can make paper airplanes and fly them in class to distract other students. They can wad up paper and throw it at people in the room. They can throw pencils, which could really hurt someone.  They can use their pencil to scribble inappropriate and/or mean comments to pass around the room.

Kids use paper and pencil for "bad" things in the classroom all the time. But teachers haven't taken those tools away, have we? No, because we recognize that educational potential value of these objects. So what do we do instead? We teach our kids how to use these materials responsibly, and we begin this teaching at a very young age.

If we teach our students how to use things like social networking and texting in a responsible, academic way....couldn't we do immense good with these things?  Then students would be learning in their own ways, with their own devices.

Welcome to teaching in the 21st century. :)