Originally published in TEACH Magazine, March/April 2011 issue
This article is from the TEACH archives, some information may no longer be current
By Lisa Tran
Should you friend your students on Facebook? What if you used an account separate from your personal one? Is any online communication with students appropriate?
The behavior of Internet users is changing quickly. Information is no longer static. We now read, write, and contribute online and for our students, it is done mostly on a social network. There’s little doubt that if we want to be a part of a digital native’s world, we need to also engage with them in their world. Many teachers are digital immigrants, refugees, even, who often misunderstand the role of social media and online communication. To bridge the gap, we need to explore and learn about the ways in which students communicate digitally, but is online communication with students effective or safe?
Lisa is the Managing Editor at TEACH Mag. With over a decade of experience in educational content and media development, she’s passionate about social justice, education equity, and empowering learners of all ages. Outside of work, Lisa’s a globe-trotter at heart—she loves getting lost in new cities, sampling street food, chatting with locals, and collecting stories (and souvenirs) along the way.
