Open the Walled Garden: Social Networking in the Classroom

Most schools block social media on their networks, creating what is known as a walled garden.  In this VoiceThread, I discuss the advantages of using social media in the classroom, including some of the ways teachers are already using these tools.


VoiceThread slides

What do you think, does the potential for learning outweigh the potential for distraction?  Comment on the VoiceThread to share your thoughts.  You can also check out a lesson using social networking tools to encourage collaboration.

References

Chan, N.  (2013, November 15).  Astronaut Chris Hadfield on the value of social media.  Jamie & Adam Tested.  Retrieved from http://www.tested.com/science/space/459077-astronaut-chris-hadfield-value-social-media/.

Cofino, K.  (2009, October 4).  How to connect your students globally.  Always learning.  Retrieved from http://kimcofino.com/blog/2009/10/04/how-to-connect-your-students-globally/.

OnlineUniversities.com.  (2010, May 4).  100 inspiring ways to use social media in the classroom.  Retrieved from http://www.onlineuniversities.com/blog/2010/05/100-inspiring-ways-to-use-social-media-in-the-classroom/.

Sterling, G.  (2013, May 21).  Pew: 94% of teenagers use facebook, have 425 facebook friends, but twitter & instagram adoption way up.  Marketing Land.  Retrieved from http://marketingland.com/pew-the-average-teenager-has-425-4-facebook-friends-44847.

Watkins, S.  (2012, January 30).  What schools are really blocking when they block social media.  dmlcentral.  Retrieved from http://dmlcentral.net/blog/s-craig-watkins/what-schools-are-really-blocking-when-they-block-social-media.