We have all experienced Social Networking. Some more personally than others. Most have at least dabbled with Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter. The purpose is to interconnect people.
As an educator we can use Social Networking to our advantage. First it is a great medium for advertising and promoting our classes and curriculum. In a social network, particularly an electronic social network, access to targeted groups of people is instantaneous. You can simply look for a particular demographic and post information to ONLY that demographic. This allows you to connect with people who are interested in the subject you are teaching. You can find resources and references within this new community of like minded individuals. You can also find the perfect student for your curriculum if you are not teaching in a traditional school environment. I am an adult educator. As such I am looking for students who WANT to take the courses I offer. I want an engaged and motivated student and what better way than to fill your class with people who were LOOKING for you or your content.
For traditional educators, you have a medium that allows you to connect to your students and keep them informed and engaged. Most of your kids are on Facebook or Twitter already and if you want their attention, you need to reach them where they are focused. Adding dynamic content to your curriculum through YouTube videos is another way to catch their attention and keep it. You may find that you are the coolest teacher in school because you are using tools that they are familiar with and excited about!
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