Pros and Cons of Social Media in Education

Social media has become a prevalent part of our lives these days. Even in the education field, it remains a controversial topic of discussion. It was a few years back when educationalists used to consider that these serve as a good source of distraction amongst the students. However, with the advancement of technology, teachers have analyzed that social platforms can have both good and bad impacts on the education of students. Is social media good or bad has been a debated topic in the academic realm? Let us navigate through the pros and cons of social media in the education sector through this blog.     

 

The Pros of using social media in education

 

1. Educational Tool

Today’s learners are confident in social networking technologies. Teachers can take advantage of this understanding to improve students’ learning. Using social media websites, educators can create meaningful dialogue, foster collaboration, exchange ideas, and boost student interaction.

 

2. Increase student collaboration

Social media provides a platform for learners to simply interact with one another about school assignments and projects. Social media is an operative method to upsurge students’ engagement in the learning process and improve their communication skills. Children who hesitate to raise their hand in class may feel more comfortable expressing themselves online on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, or Twitter.

 

3. Encourage student partnership

Students who cannot attend class regularly may be able to express their opinions using social media. Even if this cannot entirely swap class participation it can increase students’ assurance and inspire them to find their voice.

 

4. Homework Help

When learners have doubts about an assignment or project they take the Assignment help services from assignment helpers and can simply post a message requesting if anyone can help. They are also able to write exact queries to the teacher that other students also can see. This enables the entire class to have access to the response from the instructor.

 

5. Preparing students for future

When students enter the workplace, it will be very important to use a social network and find employment. Through LinkedIn, students can start a professional web presence, research a company, and link with other job seekers and employers. Students should keep an eye on professional organizations on Twitter and Facebook to stay updated on new prospects and significant changes in their field.

 

The Cons of using social media in education

 

1. It causes distraction

The biggest disadvantage of using social media in the classroom is that it can distract students from their studies. Social media platforms like Facebook can turn away students’ attention from what is happening in the class and it affects the learning process.

 

2. Cyberbullying

On one side, social media offer a great way for students and teachers to connect, on the other side; they can be a weapon of malevolent behaviour. Social media makes it easier for students to abuse or bully their peers or even their teachers.

 

3. Posting Unsuitable Content on Social Media

This is one of the major reasons social media is not permitted in schools because it is very challenging to keep an eye on students and how they use social media.  A student can post inapt content which would be distracting and harmful to students.

 

4. Lack of head-on Communication

Some educators are worried that although a real-time online stream creates a safe platform for learners to express themselves yet, students are missing valuable lessons in real-life skills. For personal relationships and social life, students need to be required to express themselves efficiently and join with others.

 

Conclusion:

Like the two faces of a coin, social media has both pros and cons in the educational sector. It can serve as a valuable tool if used appropriately and can have a negative impact the other way around. The main issue that arises now is “ Should social media be allowed in education?”. Instructors and teachers can research and plan how to teach social media-related topics in class ensuring full safety and effective learning. And not to forget that social media in today’s world is itself a topic and a skill for which guidance is provided by professionals and students are willing to pay to seek knowledge for the same. However, safety concern has to be kept in mind while using social media in education.

 

Useful Links:

Advantages and Disadvantages of Being a Working Student

Tips to Prevent Cyberbullying

Role of Artificial Intelligence in Education

Qualities in a Good and Ideal Classroom