Module 9

After investigating Second Life, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, I needed to consider this question - 'Which of these social and professional networking tools could enhance learning, both in the classroom and beyond it, and how?'
Second Life - I had not heard of Second Life, but knowing how much students love to play computer games- especially 3d interactive virtual world games- this platform could be helpful in teaching various subjects such as History, Art, Cultures, Acting, Social Skills, etc.
Facebook - Having teenage children, I was interested in having my own Facebook page. I am a 'lurker' at the best of times, when it comes to social sites. I am happy to read everyone else's comments and I will occasionally 'like' other posts, but rarely post anything myself. Although, recently my daughter got her licence and instead of sending a group text, I put it on FB. I can see that for the 15 to mid-20 year olds that it is a way of life. I think that FB is mainly a social tool and not so much an educational tool.
Twitter - I opened a Twitter account while completing Module 2. I am following a few famous people (and then deleted some as they tweeted too often) and some work colleagues. As with FB I am not really into tweeting, but am happy to read others. I can see by using the hash tags that I could find information if I needed to. I think Twitter can be a great professional networking tool but not so much for Primary age students.
LinkedIn - Funnily enough, only the other day a friend requested that I join LinkedIn. I have set up my profile and connected with a couple of friends. I can see that if you are looking to develop network connections with other teachers, looking for a job or looking for a service that someone has used and could recommend, LinkedIn would be the place to go. This is a professional tool and I don't think Primary School students would benefit from it.

When thinking about your 'Digital Footprint', I remember a quote my mother sometimes said - 'Never put in writing anything that you wouldn't want read...' Once you have put something on the Internet it can not be totally erased. The 5/6's that I work with and most of the school have learnt about their 'Digital Footprint' and hopefully they take it seriously when they use the Internet.