The Role of Social Networking Sites in Education

     I really enjoyed the discussion on social networking sites today! I liked the examples that Denise Lindstrom showed that proved how these sites can be used positively and effectively in the classroom. I also enjoyed the discussion  that we had as a class during her presentation. TodaysMeet is a great way to get people involved in a conversation. Instead of just feeling like we were being talked at during the presentation I felt like I was part of it. It was interesting to see what other people were thinking about and reacting to what she was saying. It was instant feedback and we didn't have to wait until the end of the presentation to talk about it. I don't know about anybody else, but I am always thinking of good questions and comments during a presentation, but when its over and we are asked to give questions I forget what I was going to say. This is a good format to get all of your thoughts and ideas out before you forget them. It was difficult at times to pay attention to both, but overall it was a great conversation and a great presentation.
      In regard to the topic itself I believe that social networking can be used effectively in schools and I am glad that there are schools who are embracing this new form of technology. It is a fact that students are spending a lot of time texting and using Facebook outside of school. It is a technology that is really motivating for them. As teachers we will always be looking for new ways to motivate our students and if social networking sites is something that motivates them then why not use it. It is sending students the wrong message if we are telling them that expressing their ideas and communicating with peers is a bad thing. It doesn't matter if its online, its just great that they are doing it! Students these days are probably communicating their ideas and feelings through written word far more than students did just 5 years ago. The examples that we saw today are proof of that. For example, we saw fifth graders sharing compelling and thoughtful ideas on important matters such as global warming. It was great to see how it could connect with the curriculum!
     I agree with Denise Lindstrom's comment about there being a disconnect between home and school. We should try to eliminate this and incorporate the new forms of literacy and technology in our classrooms. We can't be afraid of this new stuff. We need to show students how it can be used in a productive way. This will show students, parents, and administrators that there are many more possibilities to these sites. This is especially true using safer sites such as Edmodo. I realize that it may not be possible in a lot of schools and there are risks, but I would love to try something like this is in my future classroom!