Pro or Con Social Media in the Classroom

Social Media in the classroom . . . hmmm . . . a few weeks ago my impulsive response would have been a resounding "NO WAY!" All the fears that were expressed in the "con" side of the argument in the article were my greatest fears. Social Media will distract kids from the important topics being discussed in the classroom, it will be used as a tool to hide identities while picking on others, and most importantly, as someone who has studied and taught Communication for many years, the lack of face to face interaction and exchange has always bothered me. So, it seems so cut and dry . . .or seemed so cut and dry. Fast forward a few weeks. Where do I see the position of Social Media in the classroom today? Well, it isn't so simple. The above stated concerns do still sit prominently in my mind; however, lets face it - we can't change it, so we may as well embrace it. Kids are using social media, telling them to stop would be about as successful as my parents telling me to turn off the T.V. Somehow I always found my way back. I am a pop-culture guru when it comes to 80's sitcoms, and that doesn't bode well for my parents efforts, does it? Kids are Cyberbullying. That is a fact. Keeping it out of the classroom in a useful and controlled way is not stopping that, but it is limiting student engagement in the classroom. In fact, I might argue, that learning to use Social Media effectively and with purpose, may even lower the incidences of bullying, as the kids now have other things to do with these tools that keep them busy, learning and focused. Who knows? Parents use social media. I know I personally get an envelope full of paper sent home every Tuesday in my kids' backpacks - I pick through and read about 1/4 of it, thinking I will get to it later. I never do, because I am not going to carry that envelope around with me. The ability to interact and exchange ideas is broadening. Learning and uncovering information is on going. I think if teachers are ahead of the game, clear with their intentions and specific in their use - social media can not only enhance classroom interactions, but engage parents in a way they haven't been engaged in their kids education - dare I say, ever . . . Bottom line, it is what it is today - if you can't beat 'em, join 'em. Or beat 'em in their own game - the cliche you subscribe to is up to you!!! Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!