NSBA ENCOURAGES EXPLORATION OF SOCIAL NETWORKING IN SCHOOLS
As recently reported on several blogs, the U.S.National School Board Association has issued a study, which encourages schools to explore social networking in the classroom.
Noted eduBlogger, Will Richardson, rejoiced along ith many of his readers. Quoting Tech.Blorge.com's coverage of the NSBA study, Richardson called attention to two exciting findings.
1) The study suggested that it's not just students who are using social networking sites outside the classroom--a large percentage of educators are involved as well.
"Social networking may be advantageous to students - and there could already be a double standard at work. 37% of districts say at least 90% of their staff are participating in online communities of their own - related to education - and 59% of districts said that at least half were participating. 'These findings indicate that educators find value in social networking,' the study notes, 'and suggest that many already are comfortable and knowledgeable enough to use social networking for educational purposes with their students.'
2) The study showed that most parents recognize the educational value of their children's use of Web 2.0 sites and expect schools to integrate Web 2.0 into the classroom.
"In fact, 76% of parents expect social networking will improve their children's reading and writing skills, or help them express themselves more clearly, according to the study, and parents and communities 'expect schools to take advantage of potentially powerful educational tools, including new technology.'"
You can read Will Richardon's blog at:
http://weblogg-ed.com/2007/social-networking-in-schools-gets-a-boost-from-nsba