Activity 7: Social media in learning and teaching and professional development.

What are some key features of social media that you have identified as beneficial for teaching and learning?

In the text Social Media Tools and Platforms in Learning Environments (2011), it is mentioned that social media can be harnessed to describe and implement new paradigms for communication, learning, and education. And how can social media has the capacity to authentically enhance teaching and learning experiences. It enables the shift that Sir Ken Robinson talks about (As mentioned in previous post). 

I think that this is a key feature that is highly beneficial for both teaching and learning. 

Social media enables anyone to break down the traditional "classroom learning" mindset, and provide an opportunity for learners to engage with subject matter informally, outside of the classroom by collaborating with their peer group (Gousetti 2014).

Social media provides an avenue for students to collaboratively engage in learning and contribute to a global learning community. 

What are potential challenges that teachers need to be aware of when integrating social networking platforms into teaching activities?
In my opinion a potential challenge when integrating social media into learning activities is developing student's ability to judge the quality of the information that they are accessing. As a teacher it is impossible to filter or manage every bit of content that students encounter. It is essential that students are taught the necessary critical thinking skills, so that they are able to identify quality information. 

Another age old challenge is the idea of cyber-safety. It is increasingly important for students to be able to safely engage with social media. I believe that it is imperative that we as teachers equip our students to make make informed and appropriate decisions about their online behaviour. 


How do/would you use social media to enhance your professional development?

I follow a number of education blogs and twitter feeds that enable me to enhance my professional development. Another Portal that I have recently accessed is N4L's Pond. I have not yet contributed to the community, but I have found a wealth of resources, ideas that come from teachers in NZ. 

References:


Gouseti, A. (2012). A comparative investigation of the use of digital technologies to facilitate school collaboration within the framework of the eTwinning programme. Institute of Education (University of London).

Gouseti, A. (2014). Digital Technologies for School Collaboration. New York: Palgrave Macmillan.


Joosten, T.( 2013. October 22). Pearson: Social Media for Teaching and Learning. Retrieved fromhttp://www.slideshare.net/tjoosten/social-media-for-teaching-and-learning-27456257?ref=http://professorjoosten.blogspot.co.nz/2013/10/pearson-social-media-for-teaching-and.html
pond.co.nz

White, B. (2011) Social Media Tools and Platforms in Learning Environments