A continuous discussion that I have heard and read several times is whether a teacher should have accounts and be actively present on such social networks as FaceBook or MySpace, or other social networks that their students use and their administrators could access.
First, FaceBook and MySpace are two examples of social networking websites that, most likely, your students are using on a regular bases. I have found it taking place in middle school (grade 6) and above. For a great article about some of FaceBook’s features and its history, please check out Andy Carvin’s weblog on the subject on pbs.org.
Second, numerous educators, including music educators, have blogged about the topic and there have been split decisions on whether teachers should join these networks. I have seen some of the abuses of FaceBook and My Space, as I have seen students get bullied on these websites. However, as I read other responses, I can find some benefits from networking on these sites. Check out these three blogs and the comments. The teachers and parents who comment on them do give you more insight into the topic. I feel that Carol gives you a good approach to the subject of social networking in the school system.
As for me, I am on the fence. I know of teachers in my school who are on these networks and I have heard the comments that the middle schoolers have said about their FaceBook or My Space pages (some kind and some not).
What are your thoughts? Should teachers be active on these networks? And…are there educational benefits to these networks? I would love to read your comments on the subject.
Entries (RSS)
Powered by FireStats