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Before 2008, I could not understand how and where social networks, like Facebook, MySpace, etc, could be helpful or beneficial. Then, I started using it and realized the good part about it, to communicate, connect, collaborate, and more importantly to share.
The Bad thing about these networks is that it could be addicting, and time consuming, especially if you want to follow-up and respect social communication protocols. (Reply back and forth).
The ugly part of these networks is that it could be a hunting ground for child predators and sexual molesters.
The future of these networks will depend on its developers, specifically, the kind of terms, conditions, restrictions, and more importantly, a secure and protected environment were it is safe for all.
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I totally agree with you Mohamed. When I started this program and learned I was going to have to get a Facebook account I was questioning what I had got myself into. All I had heard were the stories of how Facebook was a recruiting ground for hate groups and other such offenders. Yet here I am a year later having written a thesis on the educational aspects of social networking and how it should not be banned from schools. I also agree with your statement about respect. That is why I built a course to support my thesis that teaches users of social networks and other forms of Internet communication how to be safe and respectful of others. Behind every avatar, or screen-name is a real person.
ReplyDeleteWhile I do believe that the companies who build social networks sites have some responsibility to watch what is done and said, I think it is us the users that must be trained and shown how using such tools makes us global citizens and we need to act accordingly. With a little respect and responsibility these are remarkable tools. Since social networking is a tool that is widely used in higher education and increasingly in the workforce, it is time that we as eduators step up and begin teaching students the benefits of these sites and the most appropriate manner in which to use them. That way they will be safe, fun and enjoyable for all and still a powerful place to collaborate and connect.
This article on the pluses of social networking just popped up on my Google Reader feed. Thought you might like it: http://lifehacker.com/5501129/social-networks-can-make-us-more-creatively-productive
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