There is no getting away from social media today. The dependence on it is so much that various governments worldwide are seriously taking steps to curtail its use among youngsters below 14 years.
Practically, however, that may be more difficult to implement. That makes us wonder if maybe there is another way in which the power of social media can be seen.
Instead of viewing it as a hindrance to motivation, learning, and discipline, why not think of how it can be used for the benefit of the users, especially when it comes to their education?
There is now sufficient data among educators to conclude that, used strategically and thoughtfully, social media usage can help young learners overcome hesitation, anxiety, and learning difficulties.
This is because learning challenges are shared within a community of learners, usually a classroom. This helps socialise those with learning issues like ADHD or even individuals who may not be very social in physical spaces.
Within content learning, using social media platforms has been shown to improve writing skills through continuous feedback, develop listening skills by introducing interactive videos, help in revising through self-help groups created by the students, and apply critical thinking as platforms offer debates and conflicting points of view.
In terms of soft skills, the use of social media also encourages collaboration among learners, usually benefiting the outcome of a project. It also allows for a healthy exchange of ideas, if appropriate moderation is implemented.
As an interactive platform in a school, social media has been used to increase student engagement with the class and each other, as well as their overall participation.
Teachers can share resources like additional readings with the class if it helps to clarify a topic. This is very important if teaching is seen, not as a passive activity but as an organic and developing process that takes into account the students’ changing needs.
Social media has now also become the primary mode of communication with parents or guardians. In many ways, this dynamic platform gives parents a sense of support and comfort, knowing that children are within reach in case of any necessity.
They can also track their children’s progress in real time, without having to wait for the annual meeting with a teacher. Corrective measures can thus be taken as soon as needed, rather than at the end of a school year.
Of course, none of this is to imply that social media platforms can be used across the board with no limitations. There are serious issues of distractions, lack of focus, and even submission of unoriginal assignments when these platforms are allowed with no rules. This also affects teachers as the expectation to be available at all hours impacts their personal lives.
The use of social media and digital platforms in education is no longer an upcoming trend but a deeply entrenched teaching strategy. If anything, it is only going to get more popular and its potential must be used with purpose, care, and clarity.
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