Social networking Teachers nightmare or new teaching tool?

One reading this week was and article titled, "How to use Social Networking Technology as a Learning Tool"

http://www.edutopia.org/how-use-social-networking-technology

This article, from Edutopia, found at the link above, is one that everyone should read, it is short but very good. It expresses the need to reach students at their level, which quite frankly, is technologically. Creating a class blog, or allowing students to sign up for websites that allow them more learning experiences, is much more beneficial than having them play math games for thirty minutes a day. As the article says "too often, schools use computers as little more than glorified workbooks, and that's criminal,"

My host classroom teacher has a blog set up where she communicates daily to her students and parents. She has set it up so her students can ask her questions, as well as, their parents. She updates it every afternoon, with what topics were covered that day, as well as, what was sent home with the students ( homework, permission slips, newletters etc.) I feel that this is a tool that would alleviate a lot of stress when it comes time for parent - teacher conferences. Having an open line of communication with families makes them feel more comfortable that their children are with you all day long. This is also good for students who may be afraid to ask questions in class, so they can ask them on the blog, or express concern about projects or activities from class.

It does take alot of extra time to set up things, such as a blog, but taking the time to do it, will be more than worth it. I also feel that, as the article talked about, it is crutial that students are being taught how to properly use these tools. Many schools as well as parents ban them becuase their children use them inappropriately. Teaching students how to use them, and how not to use them, will eleviate the worries surrounding social media.

:)