Effective Use of Social Media in Transforming Pedagogical Practices
Educators globally have been debating over the use and abuse of social media among young people. Its influence is criticised vehemently as a stumbling block to academic excellence. The transition to an online platform for learning has made us educators explore and develop newer strategies to use social media as a potential tool to connect with the learners more efficiently. Let us explore how teachers use it efficiently to enhance the classroom teaching experience.
1. WhatsApp -Classroom Experience at Finger Tips
Being the most user-friendly app, WhatsApp tops the list as the most sought-after social media platform. Its prominent features allow easy data transfer and are being used by the teachers of the rural areas very efficiently to deliver their daily lessons without many technical glitches, whereas many who use the other sophisticated self-designed platforms for face-to-face interactions find WhatsApp group the best medium to send notifications and reminders related to classroom activities
2. Facebook – Creating Learning Communities.
Private Groups for Teacher-Led Collaborative Learning
The contribution of Facebook in collaborative learning is undeniable as it allows teachers to create private groups, connect with students, deliver live lessons, initiate discussions, and thus ensure active participation of the students in the teaching-learning process. The students develop an attitude towards research by sharing links to useful articles and online resources.
3. Public Groups for Social Constructivist Learning
Facebook groups allow the teaching fraternity to move one step forward and organize online student-led science fairs, art exhibitions, and talent displays promoting self-discovery and reflection. Participating in a larger group allows one to collect knowledge and information through social interactions, which take the form of comments and discussions.
4. Blogs-Multi Dimensional Learning Spaces.
Blogs have gained popularity as a medium to gather credible information. They are used widely as sources of reference by the teaching community. While blog writing is promoted among students as a tool to enhance their writing skills it contributes towards boosting their self-confidence and enhances creativity.
Siny K Gopinath
Principal
Orchids The International School, Haralur, Bangalore
Educators globally have been debating over the use and abuse of social media among young people. Its influence is criticised vehemently as a stumbling block to academic excellence. The transition to an online platform for learning has made us educators explore and develop newer strategies to use social media as a potential tool to connect with the learners more efficiently. Let us explore how teachers use it efficiently to enhance the classroom teaching experience.
1. WhatsApp -Classroom Experience at Finger Tips
Being the most user-friendly app, WhatsApp tops the list as the most sought-after social media platform. Its prominent features allow easy data transfer and are being used by the teachers of the rural areas very efficiently to deliver their daily lessons without many technical glitches, whereas many who use the other sophisticated self-designed platforms for face-to-face interactions find WhatsApp group the best medium to send notifications and reminders related to classroom activities
2. Facebook – Creating Learning Communities.
Private Groups for Teacher-Led Collaborative Learning
The contribution of Facebook in collaborative learning is undeniable as it allows teachers to create private groups, connect with students, deliver live lessons, initiate discussions, and thus ensure active participation of the students in the teaching-learning process. The students develop an attitude towards research by sharing links to useful articles and online resources.
3. Public Groups for Social Constructivist Learning
Facebook groups allow the teaching fraternity to move one step forward and organize online student-led science fairs, art exhibitions, and talent displays promoting self-discovery and reflection. Participating in a larger group allows one to collect knowledge and information through social interactions, which take the form of comments and discussions.
4. Blogs-Multi Dimensional Learning Spaces.
Blogs have gained popularity as a medium to gather credible information. They are used widely as sources of reference by the teaching community. While blog writing is promoted among students as a tool to enhance their writing skills it contributes towards boosting their self-confidence and enhances creativity.
Siny K Gopinath
Principal
Orchids The International School, Haralur, Bangalore