Thing #18

Why is it important that educators know how social networking works?
Let's face it, social networking is rapidly taking over most forms of communication.  Maybe this is part of the reason that I can not talk to a human sometimes when I try to make a phone call. Some people choose to make this their primary means of communication and we may be loosing the true art of a physical conversation.  That's my venting.  Well, as an educator, we must be aware of the current and popular means of communicating as well as the good old fashioned face to face conversation.  Being able to reach out and communicate to a student in their type of environment may very well be what that student needs to be successful in some classes.



What new insights did you gain about these popular sites?
There is so much information out there.  I am really dragging my feet on joining facebook, primarily because I see it totally consume some people.  It definitely has positive qualities in posting information among other things.  I did join Twitter, mostly because it was involved in another "thing"  I have followed a few special education sites and some people that I know.  I refuse to allow twitter to consume me though.  I will not post on a regular basis.  I see some live TV shows in which some people have to tweet while even on the show.

What did you like or dislike about each of the sites you explored?
I think that one of the most positive aspects of these sites are the accessibility.  You can virtually access anywhere.  Most smart phones have the option during the initial set up to link to your phone.  The biggest disadvantage that I see is the overwhelming consumption of time that some people allow.


Which site had the most useful features?
I can appreciate the features of twitter to follow a specific topic.  I am sure Facebook has very similar features as well, but I do not have an account and did not preview it. 


Can you see a classroom or school application for any of these sites?
Classroom applications are merely limited to the user.  The sky really is the limit as to what these sites may be able to provide to the effectiveness of the classroom.