Social networking in schools

Having never used MySpace, Facebook or Elgg (the social software discussed in this piece) I read the article titled Don’t Tell Your Parents: Schools Embrace MySpace by Robert Andrews with no preconceived ideas about the benefits or disadvantages of these social networking sites.

This article highlighted, that if used appropriately and well, there are many benefits for students if they have access to social networking sites at school. The author suggests that this type of online medium, used educationally, allows students to ‘document, consume and communicate their learning…’. He also identifies that this is a great medium for group work which is popular within schools.

After reading this piece I do believe that, with set conditions/regulations, there is a place for these types of social software within the school. I feel that any medium that encourages students to share their learning with others and learn from others is helpful. Courtney also discusses social software and highlights some of the disadvantages using it in the classroom.

Reference:

Andrews, R. (2007).Don’t Tell Your Parents: Schools Embrace MySpace.Wired.

Photo from:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/39442289@N00/515272402