Social Networking: Cautionary note
Social networking can be a great way to interact and communicate with students and even parents. However, please consider the following when setting up:
- Elementary teachers - Facebook: no one under the age of 13 is supposed to have a Facebook page. I suggest that you do not use this tool for elementary students/classes. Secondary teachers go right ahead.
- ALWAYS use your work email. Do not allow students on to your personal Facebook page.
- Keep an eye on comments made on your page.
- Remember, whatever you post on there is permanent. Avoid opinions or personal thoughts. Keep it professional. (Click on the icon for an informative article)
- I suggest that you encourage your students to create a separate school email just like you created a work email.
Facebook can be a great way to keep your students appraised of events, homework, and other communications. You can remind them about holidays, to bring in handouts, etc.
A class Facebook page is useful for showing parents what you are doing also. You could post pictures of field trips, assemblies and school events. Just make sure you monitor the page/wall for inappropriate comments. |
Just like Facebook, you can use Twitter to send out Tweets to remind students of upcoming events, test, projects etc.
This is likely more user friendly for secondary students also. http://plpnetwork.com/2011/07/29/twitter-for-teachers-discover-hashtag-pd/ |
There are other social networking sites and tools you can use. There is no reason not to use them.
Just remember:
Just remember:
- Use common sense.
- Keep your professional and personal life separate.
- Whatever you put on line remains there.
- Avoid opinions and personal comments that you have to explain.