I read an article about digital literacies (2008)by William Kist called 'I gave up my space for lent-New teachers and social networking sites'. It discussed the participation of teachers in Web 2.0. The article addressed teacher's fear of involvement in theses literacies because they were afraid that students could post informaton about them that would prove detrimental to their careers and reputation .I must admit that I myself was afraid to join facebook at one time and put it off until recently when a friend sent me an email inviting me to do so. Students would meet me on the corridor and ask me-Hey miss, are you on facebook?- and I would be glad to tell them no because I was sure that they would be up to spoiling my reputation if I answered in the affirmative. I had reasons for saying so since administration was mentioned adversely there. However doing the ICT course loosened some of my inhibitions and I have all intentions of keeping abreast with some of the new literacies that I am presently learning.
Kist quoted one teacher who said that teachers should not be afraid to have genuine relationships with students as mentors and friends. One reason for maintaining profiles was to meet people with similar interests. I believe that we have to be selective in the use of the language, the friends we make and the photographs that we use.
Hi Jen,
ReplyDeleteWhist, it is important that we try our best to accommodate and facilitate the needs of the digital generation, I personally believe that we must not work outside of our parameters, that is, if we are not knowledgeable about the tool and in the event our reputation becomes tainted and our relationships with our students are hampered.Social networking with our students can have a positive impact upon our students lives but we must always ask ourselves "How can this electronic tool also be integrated into my lesson plan?"
Hi Jenny! I have long been a part of the facebook phenomenon and even though I was hesitant about including students in my contacts, so far it has been a very positive experience for me. You see, these kids are so curious (or in trini terms..they rel fass)that they are willing to read anything on your page to get some insight into your life. I take this opportunity to put up quotes, lyrics, short anecdotes and articles of interest on my page to expose them to new concepts; and you know what, most of my students read them. Also they are not afraid to message me and now chatting has become such a chore since they all want to chat with me when I am on-line. If I want to get through to my students, facebook is a noteworthy medium for me.
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