Social Media in our Schools: The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly

Social media is taking over the world.  Everyone is using it these days, so what about using it in school?  Will it broaden your learning, or just distract you from it?  There are numerous pros and cons about this touchy subject.  The debate continues to go on.  Here are some pros and cons of using social media in the school system:

Pros-

Communication Outlet for Students and Teachers.

Having trouble with a homework assignment?  No problem!  Just log in your computer and ask a classmate or teacher for help.  No more stressing out about whether or not you’re doing something wrong.  Social media will be an outlet for increased communication among your fellow peers.

Educational Tool

Technology is growing fast- we need to grow with it.  Social media keeps you up to date on what is happening every second in the world.  Students and teachers can use this as an educational tool to help them learn, collaborate, discuss, and interact about the most current events.

Networking/ Future Employment

Social media is being used in almost every, if not all companies these days.  When a student graduates, they need to possess the skills and knowledge of social media to compete in the job market.  Finding a job is tough- make it easier by knowing your way around the internet.  Networking is crucial.  With sites like LinkedIn, students can post their resumes, research companies or schools and connect with job seekers and employers.  Following businesses and professional organizations on sites like Twitter and Facebook can help you stay updated on opportunities for your future.

Cons-

Distraction in the Classroom

Social media can be a major distraction.  It can become an addiction- especially with sites like Twitter and Facebook, it takes your mind off what is happening in class and can give a student more ways to act up and disrupt their learning.

 No Face-to-Face Communication

Using social media can take you away from real life, face to face interaction with people.  When you neglect face to face communication, you may become uncomfortable when a certain situation that calls for it comes up.  If you are so used to interacting online in social media, what will happen when you have a face to face interview?  You may not be prepared for it.  It can take away your ability to be able to express yourself in front of others and damage personal relationships.

Cyber-bullying

There have been many reports of cyber-bullying.  Students can take advantage of social media in a negative way.  Since it is easier to pick a fight when you are not in front of the person, things can get very dangerous.  Harassment can emotionally affect a student and discourage them in the worst ways.  Teachers need to be aware of this when considering bringing social media to the classroom and set ground rules in order to protect students and prevent harsh things like this from happening.