LESSON 3: SOCIAL MEDIA IN EDUCATION
Definition of Social Media
1. Nations, D. (2019): Social media refers to web-based communication tools enabling
interaction through sharing and consuming information.
2. Dollarhide, M. (2019): Social media is computer-based technology for sharing ideas,
thoughts, and information via virtual networks and communities, characterized by:
● Internet-based design.
● Quick electronic communication of content (e.g., personal information, videos, photos).
● Accessible via computers, tablets, or smartphones using web-based software or
applications.
Types of Social Media (Foreman, C., 2017)
1. Social Networking
● The activity of connecting with others online to build and maintain relationships.
● Occurs on platforms where users create profiles, share information, exchange
messages, and engage in discussions.Connect with people (e.g., Facebook,
Twitter, LinkedIn).
2. Media Sharing Networks
● Focuses on sharing visual or multimedia content, such as photos, videos, and
audio.
● Allow individuals and businesses to showcase creativity, engage audiences, and
promote their brands (e.g., Instagram, YouTube).
3. Discussion Forums
● Users engage in conversations by posting questions, sharing opinions, and
exchanging ideas on various topics.
● These forums are organized into threads, making it easy for people to participate
in or follow specific discussions (e.g., Reddit, Quora).
4. . Bookmarking & Content Curation
● Designed to help users collect, organize, and share content they find valuable or
interesting.
● Allow users to save links, images, or resources for future reference and create
collections that can be shared with others.Save and share content (e.g.,
Pinterest, Flipboard, Tumblr).
5. Consumer Review Networks
● Allow users to share their experiences, opinions, and ratings of businesses,
products, or services.
● Designed to help consumers make informed decisions by providing transparent
feedback from others (e.g., Yelp, TripAdvisor).
6. Blogging & Publishing
● Allow individuals and businesses to create, share, and promote written content
online.
● Used to share stories, insights, or expertise, build a following, and engage with
audiences through long-form content.Publish content (e.g., WordPress, Medium).
7. Interest-Based Networks
● Designed to connect users with similar hobbies, passions, or professional
interests.
● Allow individuals to share knowledge, explore new ideas, and build communities
around specific topics.Focus on hobbies/interests (e.g., Goodreads,
Houzz,Last.fm).
8. Social Shopping Networks
● Combine social media features with e-commerce to create a shopping
experience centered around user interaction, recommendations, and community
engagement.
● Allow users to discover products, read reviews, share shopping experiences, and
make purchases directly within the platform. Online shopping (e.g., Etsy,
Polyvore).
9. Sharing Economy Networks
● Facilitate the exchange of goods and services directly between individuals, often
bypassing traditional businesses.
● Enable people to rent, share, or trade resources, creating a more collaborative
and cost-effective model. Trade goods/services (e.g., Airbnb, Uber).
10. Anonymous Social Networks
● Allow users to interact, share content, and engage in discussions without
revealing their personal identities.
● Focus on providing a space where individuals can freely express opinions or ask
questions without the pressure of being identified. Communicate anonymously
(e.g., Whisper, Ask.fm).
USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN TEACHING AND LEARNING
Educational Benefits of Social Media (Willbold, M. 2019; Jain, R. n.d.)
1. For Students:
● Communication & Collaboration.
● Access to Concrete Information Online.
● Improved Literacy & Communication Skills.
● Distance Learning Opportunities.
● Collaborative Learning.
● Information Sharing
2. For Educators:
● Social Media Marketing.
● Research Support.
● Teaching Anywhere/Everywhere.
● Creating Virtual Libraries via Blogs.
● Encouraging Learning through Social Networking.
PROS AND CONS OF USING SOCIAL MEDIA IN EDUCATION
Pros
1. Educational Tool
● Improve students’ learning.
● Create meaningful dialogue, foster collaboration, exchange ideas, and boost
student interaction.
2. Enhanced Communication
● Allow for easier and faster communication between students, teachers, and
parents. It's a great way to clarify doubts, discuss assignments, and share
updates
3. Enhanced Interaction and Engagement
● Facilitate real-time interaction during online classes, enabling students to
connect with instructors and peers outside formal learning platforms.
4. Access to More Information
● Gain access to a plethora of information from a simple Google search.
5. Developing digital skills
● Help students develop basic digital skills which are fundamental for both their
academic life and their professional future.
Cons
1. Causes Distraction
● Distracting students from their studies and it affects the learning process.
2. Cyberbullying
● Can be a weapon of malevolent behavior. Social media makes it easier for
students to abuse or bully their peers or even their teachers.
3. Misinformation and Fake News
● Spread of misinformation and fake news on social media can undermine critical
thinking skills and distort students' understanding of current events.
4. Screen Time and Health Issues
● Excessive screen time associated with social media use can lead to physical and
mental health problems, such as eye strain, sleep disturbances, and anxiety.
5. Addiction and Dependence
● Social media can be addictive, leading to compulsive use and negative
consequences for academic performance and mental health.
IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN EDUCATION
1. Bridges the Gap
● Connects students and teachers globally, fostering diverse perspectives and
knowledge exchange.
2. Prepares for the Digital Age
● Equips students with essential digital skills for future careers.
3. Encourages Lifelong Learning
● Promotes self-directed learning through easy access to information.
4. Creates an Inclusive Environment
● Caters to different learning styles and needs, ensuring no student is left behind.
5. Facilitates Innovation
● Encourages educators to develop creative teaching strategies using multimedia
and interactive tools.
CONCLUSION
The success of collaboration may depend on how well people are educated and how well they
use social media. In the last few decades, social media have become more popular as a free
way to get and share information and ideas. Every social media platform can be used in various
ways, from making it easier for parents and teachers to talk to each other and for students and
professionals to work together across borders. In addition, teachers are increasingly using
social media to help students learn and improve the classroom environment.
References
https://tinyurl.com/yc7c7fye
https://tinyurl.com/296dc2da
https://tinyurl.com/2hjy6kkp
Members
Alvarez, Rose Mandasoc,Amie
Bigcas,Salve Ostonal, Anastacio
Nollan,Vinus Rifareal, Karen
Vidal, Cristina
