Internet+Safety

1. Can Facebook Posts Lead to College Rejections? [] This article discusses the influence of social networking on college admission. While it does not directly deny or agree that it happens, it says that it is very important that people be cautious when it comes to putting certain things up on their network pages. This could help students, especially those who are looking at colleges, to be careful and more mindful of what they put up on their social network sites.

2. Less is More: Using Social Media to Inspire Concise Writing [] This article talks about how teachers can get students to write about things in a short, concise way based on how they might update their Facebook statuses or Twitter. An actual lesson guide, along with materials needed, etc. is also provided. Students will definitely enjoy this type of assignment, especially since it deals with Facebook, Twitter, etc. and the fact they do not have to write very much.

3. Social Media in Education: The Power of Facebook [] This is a blog written by a teacher who has found very positive points about using social media for educational purposes. She found that social media allows people to write about and express themselves about the things they find most important or what they are dealing with. It is also a way for the world to stay connected with the different issues that countries are dealing with. She sees how valuable social media can be in education and is an advocator to make sure it stays that way. I think this article is geared more towards teachers, and is advocating for the positive effects social media can have in a classroom.

4. The Case For Social Media in Schools [] This is another blog-type post that demonstrates the positive effects that social media has on education. It can improve student interest, which can then improve grades and student achievement. Six Points are provided for support; they are: Social Media is not going away, When Kids are Engaged They Learn Better, Safe Social Media Tools are Available-And They’re Free, Replace Online Procrastination with Online Education, Social Media Encourages Collaboration Instead of Cliques, and Cell Phones Aren’t The Enemy.

5. Evacuees of Texas Wildfires Turn to the Internet [] This is an article about how social media can be used during times of disaster. It can allow people to communicate with one another and keep each other informed about new things that may be happening-such as in a wildfire- and can also be an excellent way for disaster victims to cope together. This could be an excellent way for students to research certain current events, disasters, etc.

6. Social Networking Goes to School [] This article discusses how schools can use social networking sites as a way to communicate within the school community. It also talks about how students can use networks like Skype to communicate with students in different states and even different countries. It is even mentioned that networks like Twitter can help promote the professional development of schools.

7. Social Networking in Schools: Educators Debate the Merits of Technology in Classrooms http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/27/social-networking-schools_n_840911.html This is an article that describes both the negative side and positive side of using technology (and ultimately social media).