Journal #7- Beyond Social Networking: Building Toward Learning Communities

Reynard, Ruth (15 July, 2009). Beyond social networking: building toward learning communities. The Journal: Transforming Education Through Technology, Retrieved July 29, 2009, from http://thejournal.com/Articles/2009/07/15/Beyond-Social-Networking-Building-Toward-Learning-Communities.aspx?Page=1

Ruth Reynard discusses the use of social networking among young crowds, she adds that older groups of people are developing technological skills. We see more and more people using social networking, not just young people. Reynard gives us information on how social networking can help students but also how it doesn't. She bring up that "if educators only integrate the ability of students to connect and socialize, deeper points of learning will be missed." Being a good teacher or a good students heavily depends on 'effective relationships' with an effective learning community. The relationship that are formed will continue to grow, and help students interact and exchange ideas. Younger generations are the ones who are changing the way things are done, by incorporating technology. Technology enhances the learning and teaching process in the classroom. Reynard mentions that in a regular classroom a teacher would have to plan ahead, group and pair students, and give them instruction. Why would we want to do all that when we could make it happen immediately, using social networking. These are some suggestions that Reynard gives in the article in order to help accomplish an effective social networking system. 1. Maintain a constant presence, understand student's views on social networking. 2. Use a variety of different tools to process information. 3. Actively synthesize broadly scoped ideas into workable focus areas. 4. Continue to engage students.

How can teachers do to keep up the growing technology?
I think that it may be hard for many teachers to keep up with the newest technology. There is so much out there and it continues to expand. Teachers need to attend tutorials and workshops in order to keep themselves informed and provide the best schooling for their students. Because we all know we have had one or two professors that call a student up to help with the projector or the computer. Not that its a big deal but I think it is important as an educator to provide students with information on technology. Technology is a big part of society!

Does social networking provide more learning styles for students?
I think that students who don't participate much in class, will be more incline to participating. Shy students will get the opportunity to express their opinions or raise any questions they may have without feeling embarassed. This will create more participation and active learning!