-Deva Narayan
In the digital era, where rearranging the educational landscape is common, social media emerges as a potentially powerful means of fostering online learning and engaging students. As more and more classrooms begin to dissolve in the online sea, both educators and students are discovering that platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn allow for the creation of dynamic interactive ‘classrooms’ with shared connections that extend beyond classroom boundaries. The constant real-time access students have to their peers and tutors allows them to discuss ideas or seek clarification on concepts they may not understand (outside of the parameters of scheduled class times) via a medium where such communication already takes place informally. This critique will analyze how social media can contribute to achieving higher student engagement in online classes.
The use of integrated media in eLearning modules can provide instructors with another dimension to connect with their students. Several authors advocate for this approach as it enables instructors to create an emotional connection/relatability between themselves and their audience through voice intonation or body language.
Social media provides a range of multimedia tools that can help facilitate learning. For example, educators can use YouTube or Instagram to upload videos, infographics, and other visuals that explain difficult concepts in an easy-to-understand way. On sites like Facebook Live or Instagram Live, teachers can also give direct lectures, and presentations or answer students’ questions live, allowing them to become part of the experience. Multimedia appeals to different kinds of learners and often presents information in a more relatable manner than traditional textbook learning.
Also, students have the chance to develop digital literacy and professional skills while using social media in their studies. As students make use of different platforms, they become familiar with how these tools function, how they can be used to create and share information as well as how they can take control over their online identity. This set of skills is commonly required in today’s professional world where social networks are ubiquitous not only for marketing purposes but also in professional interactions and networking activities. In this way, educators can ensure that students develop a powerful online portfolio that depicts their interests, talents, and achievements to improve their opportunities when entering the labor market.
Moreover, social media can be a powerful medium for personalized learning. There are countless resources on Twitter and Pinterest alone for students to discover content at their own pace and in ways that meet their own personalized needs. Teachers can use analytics within social media platforms to see what content resonates most with students and where they might need additional support or guidance. This data-driven approach allows for a more personal learning experience for each learner.
There are considerable challenges regarding the integration of social media with online learning as well. Privacy and safety are a concern since many young learners do not necessarily have the skills yet to understand how best to protect themselves online nor do they know what information should be kept private. Also, if you have other tabs inviting you down the rabbit hole on the same screen as your coursework, then staying focused may become an issue as well.
In conclusion, social media holds tremendous potential to enhance online learning and student engagement. By facilitating real-time communication, offering multimedia tools, developing digital literacy, and enabling personalized learning, social media can transform the educational experience and prepare students for success in the digital age. However, educators need to address the challenges associated with social media use and implement best practices to ensure a safe and effective learning environment. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the role of social media in education will undoubtedly expand, offering new opportunities to engage and inspire learners.