How one college professor uses Twitter in the classroom
Twitter is one of the most powerful social media tools available. There are many ways in a digital classroom to enhance teaching and learning, using this Web 2.0 application. If you've ever wondered if educators are really using Twitter in the classroom, wonder no more.
The how-to video above is a remarkable example of how a college professor has taken the Web 2.0 application, Twitter, and taught her students to be part of any classroom project or discussion, using Twitter, creating a truly digital classroom.
Do you see this as something you can translate to the K-12 classroom? What are the benefits? the stumbling blocks?
Comments
Three of my children are in college and I hear them make comments about large-size lecture hall classes - students are on Facebook, playing online games, checking their email, watching videos, etc. during lectures. It does appear that incorporating Twitter into the lecture can harness their attention and provide all students with a voice. It also allows the teacher to document who is participating. It's so tough for students to establish a relationship with a teacher in these large classes, but Twitter can definitely foster it and create a dialog between student and teacher. Great idea. She had nothing to lose by giving it a try, and it appears to have been a success.
Ok my mind is racing now. How we could get students to pay attention better, enjoy lessons and get everyone to participate! After seeing this video, I thought how I could have everyone tweet a comment or answer a question for each time we had a lesson and then everyone can see the comments and I could respond to each and every student's tweets in between lessons! And for anyone who it would be easier to write a comment, someone could post the comment on twitter afterwards. I love it! Meg Cunningham
I think that its awesome that class discussions can be carried out from any location, whether teacher or student is present or not. This leaves very little room for excuses for those students who were not able/ or who are afraid to make class knowing they have to share. Even if they are leaving school early for family vacation over thanksgiving they could still be linked and can be a participant in the classroom discussion when they are cruising down the highway.
Love the idea! Just need to iron out details....kids will really get into this!