'It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent' - Madeline Albright

Is the use of social media in the classroom worth the technological trouble?

The notion that social media in a classroom setting is merely a distraction? I disagree with that hypothesis.

I honestly think Social Media can provide teachers with the exciting new opportunity to connect with students in a way that continues to provoke thought and discussion inside the classroom AND outside of the classroom setting. The use of social media will definitely encourage students to interact with one another and may increase engagement and interest in content. #goals

This transition to using social media as a resource in the classroom could be beneficial based on how students will be vastly reachable on a platform or forum they constantly check. #hitmeuponinsta

Students today are so tech-savvy, there’s no way that integrating social media into the classroom is a negative in its entirety. Social media is so unbelievably embedded in today’s society. Youngsters are constantly on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and all the other stuff the cool kids much unlike myself (I literally got a twitter account for this class) are on. I think the use of social media in the classroom is a way of adapting to the times. A way in which to accept the reality of this life. And if you want to bring the real world into the classroom, I think bringing or introducing social media into your lessons could be vastly effective.

Introducing social media into classes not only allows an opportunity for further communication and learning but also it gives educators a way of REGULATING their students use of social media in the classroom. Teachers will be in control not only of the content being discussed in the classroom, but what is discussed after class amongst learners – so, when used wisely, social media can be a useful tool rather than a distraction.

Students are already use social media away from the classroom anyway. Why not make it apart of your lesson then? My favourite aspect with regard to the introduction of social media into classroom; it’s something different, it’s interesting, it’s interactive. Integrating social media I do believe will not only foster enthusiasm with a given task but possibly also give them the opportunity to express their creativity as they connect more deeply with course material.

And finally, ushering in a new era of social media in the classroom will really help students recognize the power of their personal voice. 

How do I know this? Because it’s a lot easier voicing my opinions online than it is voicing them in a class sometimes.