It's been ages since I posted because a new school year has begun and I've been swamped with low-tech stuff (bulletin boards, read-alouds, PLCs, shelf-marker lessons.......). But I also just received my second friend request on Facebook from a current student. Don't worry everyone, I didn't accept it! However, it leads to a quandary about social networks and schools. When a student friends me, I seek that student out at school, pull them aside and explain to them why I cannot be their friend on Facebook. I usually tell them how great they are (because they usually are), but... it isn't appropriate for a teacher to be a Facebook friends with students, AND because Facebook sets an age limit at 13 (I think?) I would be seen as encouraging them to break the rules. I've considered having a Holt Library page on Facebook so I could post book recommendations, library events, etc. BUT would that not also be encouraging under-age kids to create Facebook accounts?
I think social networks are currently not an option for elementary schools. Anyone else have thoughts about using social networks with students?
2 comments:
Alison--I've struggled with the same thoughts about Facebook. I think it might be more appropriate for middle school libraries. Have you thought about using the social networking feature of Destiny? Obviously it's not as comprehensive as FB, but it allows kids to friend each other and make book recommendations. Might be something the 4th and 5th graders would be interested in? I haven't tried it but I know Jenny Umbarger (Rogers Herr) has. In terms of keeping families involved in the happenings of the Media Center, I'm hoping to use my blog as advertisement for all the great things going on. This will force me, however, to keep it current and relevant so that families will want to use it as a resource. I'm exploring the idea of a twitter account for the media center as well... I'm really curious as to how many parents at my school actually use this tool? While it's estimated that half our families have no internet at home, I bet many more have access through a cell phone!
Our population also does not have a lot of access to the internet, although that is starting to change somewhat. We are over 90% free lunch and over 50% Latino this year. I'll have to consider the features on Destiny. I've taught the kids to write reviews and request holds. Obviously it won't have the same appeal. I think there is a Facebook for younger kids. However, most parents just let the kids have a regular account so they can friend their relatives.
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