To incorporate social media technology, specifically Twitter, in the classroom. Twitter is a micro-blogging service that allows people send 140-character messages or “tweets” for anyone to see. This strategy aims to create an exciting, interactive, and engaging learning environment for students.
BENEFITS:
IT’S FUN: Using social media technology in the learning environment helps to reach students in a delivery format which is seen as entertainment and has a novelty factor.
IT FOSTERS PARTICIPATION: It is a great way to change things up and can be an extremely inclusive activity. For example, I have found students who may not actively participate in class discussions are given an opportunity to share their thoughts and views in a different way.
IT’S RELEVANT TO THE INDUSTRY: Students unfamiliar with Twitter get an introduction to the service which continues to be increasingly relevant for marketing communication and promotions.
METHODS:
REVIEW EXERCISE: I have focused on using Twitter for a review exercise to prepare students for an upcoming Marketing test. The week before the review session, students receive an introductory handout, so they can follow four simple steps to prepare: Before class students are asked to read the handout; use an existing Twitter account or set up a new account; and follow the class Twitter account. The day of review session students are asked to bring in cell phones or laptops to use to “tweet”. During the exercise, the professor “tweets” questions inquiring about course content, and students answer by “tweeting” their response. All activity is projected on screen. This exercise requires some behind the scenes preparation. For more information please see the PowerPoint images shown.
Additionally, Twitter has many applications in the classroom. The technology could be used for a variety of purposes or activities including:
- study aid
- research – buzzwords / track a word
- tweet story
- twitter poll
- discussion, collate views
- beyond the classroom
STUDENT HANDOUT:
