I think that social networking can be beneficial in the school setting, if they are used properly. During one of my courses this summer, I was introduced to FLickr and Library thing. I though that both of those sites were good social networking sites. I could see the benefits of Librarything more than flickr. Librarything could be used to have students, teachers, and media specialist review books. I can also see this being used more by students in middle and highschool. Again, some of the social networking tools can be an asset to schools if use appropriately and not as a "chat" area.
The filters on our schools computers will sometimes block some of the social networking sites. For example, Last Friday, I was able to go to the Wiki page and upload my powerpoint, when I attempted to get into the Wiki on Monday, I was blocked. The reason given "dating/ social..." I had to have administration unblock site for me. No one, that I am aware of, uses social networking within our school. Our lead media specialist recently set up a wiki for all media specialist in the county to post lesson plans and other information onto.
As stated above, I think that social networking could be used in the media center to review books. The reviews could be completed by students, teachers, and media specialists. Social networking could also be a way to offer tutorials and helpful hints for homework. Library thing could be used in conjunction with or in place of book reports.
I believe that social networking could have positive benefits in schools. But, I feel that students and adults should be trained on how to use social networking tools... and how to use them safely.
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I agree with your statement about social networking being a tool to be used as book reviews. I have also experienced using Flicker and Librarything. These a great instruments for teachers, media specialists, students, administrators, and the public to use. Everyone need to have access and should be knowledgeable on how to use any social networking tool. Furthermore, I believe social networking can be used for responding to written articles on line, blogs, and magazine reviews. This give individuals the opportunity to express their opinion about any issue in a tactful and considerate way.
Social networking can be so benficial to students, but as you mentioned on your blog, we have to be aware that some sites may be blocked. Those that make decisions in various school systems need to personally look at certain social networking sites and try them out. Also, perhaps, a list of safe sites can be generated and updated periodically by school systems with input and collaboration of media specialists and educators.
I loved reading about how your lead media specialist set up a wiki for others in the county to post lessons and ideas. I think a social networking site could be utilized much the same way. So often as teachers we never have the opportunity to visit other classrooms or schools to gain new ideas. It helps tremendously to see other education professionals at work! Social networking sites could be a great platform for that type of sharing to go on. Using the ability to post pictures and videos could enhance lesson planning and collaboration. Now if only we could get those filters lifted...
I took the same course you are speaking of this summer, and I completely forgot about Flickr and Library Thing. I really loved Flickr for sharing photos with family, but I couldn't really think of a good application for the media center. Library Thing, on the other hand, had many potential uses as you stated. I like your idea of using Library Thing for book reports. Most likely kids would be more excited about doing a book report if they could use a social networkig site versus pen and paper. Great job.
Jill, I agree with your comment about students using social networking in schools for tutorials and homework hints. It is very important that we train them on how to use it safely and productively. I like that your lead media specialist is setting up a wiki to use through out the county. Our former coordinator started to do that before she retired, but somehow I think the ball was dropped.
I also had the opportunity to use Flickr and Library Thing. I found them very interesting and a good introduction to social networking. My school also limits access to many of these sites. As more and more people become familiar with these tools, they may become more accepted and used within the school setting.
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