Blog #5 - Social Media

• Using the Internet and networks in order to make connections, advance intelligence and support various causes is astounding to think about. The Internet first came out when I was in high school. At that time it was structured much like what has been described by previous individuals - information that was accessible but unchangeable. To think about the advances that have been made, such as user-generated content is remarkable. This opens limitless knowledge because every person using it can be an author, make their voice heard or even be a critic.
• How does this pertain to my life? I can compose lesson plans, post them to the Internet for review by various other educators, then have the revisions needed to construct a better lesson than my first. I could also be the critic by using websites that boast to assist students in learning Spanish. I would then post reviews on my twitter site or personal website that rate the websites. I could also begin to work with programmers to create my own site, with games and all, in order to teach students Spanish in a virtual environment. The circle can be never-ending, because then some would review my site, rate it, post their findings on their site, etc. It is a fun circle to think about and it makes me want to pursue this goal all the more.
• What steps can I take now, being new to the idea? My first reference source is one that inspired me think outside of the box when it came to the Spanish Club at my high school. Every year, the same cycle occurs. I post signs around the school, promote the club in Spanish classes, and push the idea even more in my classroom. Very few students show up the meetings and by mid-year the Spanish Club no longer exists. My first reference resource tells how the San Diego Chargers use social media to get closer to the fans to create what they call a, “virtual tailgate party.” It would be fun try out their idea with the Spanish Club because the club would be more modern. News and update would be sent automatically via the Internet as well.
• So where can a teacher start this process in the classroom? My second reference source contains a very helpful slideshow that breaks down the concept of Social Media, its importance to individuals and society and how to create media that has a social foundation for use on the Internet.


Reference Source #1 - http://teachingsocialmedia.blogspot.com/

Reference Source #2 - http://www.slideshare.net/corinnew/social-media-in-the-classroom-presentation?type=powerpoint